Gathering is a celebration of lasting memories in Brockport

Among those who attended were (standing from l-r) Brian Speer, Bobbie Beehler, Donna-Lee Beach, Scott Arend, Dan Colaprete, Joey Cicero, Darrly Doty, Jim Pierce, Danny Bettilyon; (kneeling front row l-r) Gene Webster, Tommy Hayes, Ron Colaprete, Jeff Root, Donnie Peak, Jimmy Bettilyon, Randy Bettilyon.

Gathering is a celebration of lasting memories in Brockport

Sixty-two friends gathered Saturday, September 15 at the Brockport Conservation Club, bringing memories, memorabilia and tall stories as they remembered their minibike racing days. The friendships and gathering started behind Duffy Bettilyon’s house on West Sweden Road in 1968, but grew so large it was moved to the Brockport Conservation Club where a permanent dirt track was made and operated until 1975.

Every Sunday, weather permitting, families would gather to race, help out and or watch and cheer kids eight to 18 years old compete on the oval track. Many different classes and points systems were implemented. Stocks A&B, Modifies, Pee-Wee’s, Powder Puffs and Old Man classes had weekly winners and season champions were awarded trophies and accessories. Racers came from as far away as 1,350 miles for this event.

One of the original organizers, Brian Speer, helped put the event together. It has been more than 30 years since the last race was run.

Submitted Material