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Special to the Putnam Town Crier
Thompson Speedway continues to shuffle the personnel deck as two major changes regarding key positions were announced Oct. 30 by General Manager Josh Vanada.
Effectively immediately Jeff Zuidema, who was recently brought back as Race Director, has been promoted to the position of Director of Competition. Replacing Zuidema as the new Race Director is Scott Tapley.
Tapley is a seasoned racing official, as he comes to Thompson with a solid background. In 2008 he served as a spotter for NASCAR K&N Pro Series East Champion Matt Kobyluck. Following his stint with the Kobyluck team he served as Assistant Race Director at the Waterford Speedbowl in 2009 and 2010 and for the past two seasons was the Race Director at the Waterford oval. He then joined the Valenti Modified Racing Series and recently completed his first year as Series Director.
“Tapley brings a varied experience to Thompson. He’s worked on race cars and for the past several years has been a well-respected race official in Southern New England. He has proven to be highly consistent and fair, which are qualities on which we place a premium at Thompson. I think he will be a great fit and we are fortunate to have him as part of our all- star team,” said Vanada.
Zuidema, a four-time Thompson champion and winner of 52 races, will have full responsibility of oversight of on-track competition and the inspection process in his newest position.
“Zuidema did a terrific job for us in 2013. He brings great balance to our officiating staff. As the Director of Competition he will oversee and be responsible for the entirety of competition both on the track and in the inspection area,” said Vanada. In commenting on his appointment as Race Director, Tapley said, “I look forward to working with Josh (Vanada), Jeff (Zuidema) and the entire speedway staff. I will continue my responsibilities with the Valenti Modified Racing Series and look forward to performing to the very best of my ability in both positions.”
The latest personnel moves appear to place Thompson Speedway in the ready position as it prepares for the 2014 racing season. The changes going on in local racing have made it a necessity to have qualified and experienced personnel in key positions.