Even though short track racecars are equipped with rear-view mirrors to help drivers figure out what’s going on around them, most find its best to look forward than behind.

Howie Crowe’s 2014 season began at its usual steady pace. The veteran campaigner from the Alderville First Nation was turning in his regular run of top 5 finishes in Paul Davis Systems Thunder Car division at Peterborough Speedway, but the popular driver was still looking to visit the track’s victory lane for the first time following a main event effort. Near the halfway point of the year, he made the decision to park his tried and true ride – the yellow #28 machine, known as ‘the bus’ – in favour of the car that earned the 2013 championship at Mosport/Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Speedway oval. Crowe says the choice paid immediate dividends.

“There is just something about that car,” confided Crowe. “It’s almost like it knows how to win. It’s a great machine to drive and handles well wherever I want to run. Any driver would feel confident climbing behind the wheel on a regular basis. I’m just the one lucky enough to have the job.”

Howie Crowe turned-in a solid effort throughout the year, including a trip to Dart Heating and Air Conditioning victory lane Saturday, July 26^th. Heading into the final night of action, he enjoyed a slight advantage over his nearest rival and needed to finish ahead of that driver to clinch the crown. It was a rough and tumble affair, with plenty of bumping and grinding on the racetrack that kept the calculators in the scoring tower working overtime. When the dust finally settled, Crowe had lost the title by just a single point.

“It wasn’t the result we’d been hoping for, but I didn’t let it bother me too much,” said the second generation runner. “The battle for the championship came right down to the wire and the fans saw a show they’ll remember for quite a while. I’m looking forward to carrying the momentum we had from last year into the new season.”

With Peterborough Speedway’s 2015 schedule set to take the green flag with the Country 105 season opener – featuring free spectator grandstand admission – Saturday, May 16^th, Howie Crowe has plans to be in the heat of the battle for the Paul Davis Systems Thunder Car track championship. He’ll be back at the controls of the ride now known as ‘Black Magic’, with hopes of earning the title that eluded him during the 2014 campaign.

“I’ve never set any goals going into a new season. I have a lot of fun and have met some incredible people throughout my years in racing,” admitted Crowe. “As long as I keep enjoying what I do and running well, fans can expect to see the #28 machine looking for a spot at the front of the field on Canada’s Toughest 3^rd of a Mile Paved Oval for many years to come.”

Howie Crowe’s 2015 season at Peterborough Speedway will again be supported by Crowe Brothers Roofing, Trails End and Mayhew Graphics. Team media and public relations services are provided by Clarke Motorsports Communications.