Gage gets Regional Promoter of Year
Took over SDS in 2011, now eligible for Auto Racing Promoter of the Year award
Silver Dollar Speedway operator and promoter Dennis Gage was named Western Regional Promoter of the Year, as one of six regional recipients of the award, according to a press release from the speedway.
With the honor, Gage is now eligible for the national Auto Racing Promoter of the Year award, to be voted on later this month. The winner will be announced during the 47th annual Racing Promotion Monthly workshop Feb. 10 at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort.
Gage, who took over Silver Dollar Speedway in 2011, has also managed the Marysville Raceway for the past five years. In 2018, Gage signed a five-year contract renewal to operate Silver Dollar Speedway through 2023.
Dating back to 1962, Gage has been involved in motor sports for over 50 years. He has served as a driver, crew member and track official, before transitioning to track publicity and announcing in 1973. He also previously served as track manager in Ros
eville during a four-year span.
“What an honor this is to be recognized for the contributions you have made to a major league sport,” Gage said in a press release. “It (wouldn’t) be possible without my family’s support and a great bunch of people who surround me.”
The award, voted on annually by promoters, is the most prestigious award in short-track racing. Racing Promotion Monthly introduced the award in 1976. Voting is conducted in two phases: a preliminary ballot nominates candidates in six regions. The six become the Regional Promoters of the Year and then appear on the second ballot for final voting. It is the only national award recognizing promoters selected by peers.
Former Silver Dollar Speedway promoter John Padjen received the Auto Racing Promoter of the Year award in 2006. Other winners from California include J.C. Agajanian in 1977 and his son, Cary Agajanian, in 1986 — both for their operation of Ascot Speedway in Gardena. Bob and Nadine Strauss (2003) from Lakeport Speedway and Ray Wilkings (1990) from Saugus Speedway are also previous winners from California.