1971 – Dake Cops Valley Feature

Darrel Dake is awarded his trophy from promoter Homer Melton after his feature win at Davenport.

Davenport, Iowa (August 6, 1971) – Darrel Dake of Cedar Rapids, leading a five-car pack across the finish line, took the late model modified feature race Friday night at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds.

Dake took the close win over Lem Blankenship of Keokuk and Dean Montgomery of Milan, Ill.

An estimated 8,000 fans jammed the fairgrounds to see the opening half of the double-session racing program held in conjunction with the Mississippi Valley Fair.

Roger Dolan of Lisbon held the early lead until John Connolly of Delhi took over with Dake right on his bumper.

The veteran driver made his move with four laps to go in the 25-lap feature after a crash caused a restart. Dake grabbed the top spot on the green flag and then fended off a hard-charging Blankenship to score the victory.

Gary Kerres of Edgington won the sportsman feature as he continues to hold first place in that division’s point standings.


Results –

Heat #1 – Cal Swanson, Reinbeck
Heat #2 – Lem Blankenship, Keokuk
Semi-main – Darrel Dake, Cedar Rapids
Feature –
1. Darrel Dake
2. Lem Blankenship
3. Dean Montgomery, Milan, Ill.
4. Roger Dolan, Lisbon
5. Mike Bardoel, Davenport
6. Ray Guss, Milan, Ill.
7. Gary Reeder, Peoria, Ill.
8. Del Williams, Aledo, Ill.
9. Cal Swanson
10.Duane Steffe, East Moline, Ill.