The North-South Shootout, a prestigious event in Modified racing, is defined not just by trophies, but by the intense rivalries and unforgettable memories created by its champions. Four former winners—Matt Hirschman, Burt Myers, Andy Seuss, and Jon McKennedy—recently shared reflections on the competition, the challenges faced, and the traditions that have made the race so significant.
Matt Hirschman, who boasts 11 victories in the Shootout, recalled that his breakthrough win in 2006 was the one that truly put him on the map. He has since added six more wins after joining PeeDee Motorsports in 2016, while Burt Myers holds the unique distinction of being the first and only Southern competitor to capture the Tour-Type Modified title, achieving back-to-back wins in 2008 and 2009 at Concord.
Andy Seuss, a two-time winner, remembered his first victory at Concord, which was particularly memorable because it occurred while his three-month-old son, Lyle, was in Victory Lane. Jon McKennedy, who captured the final Tour-Type Modified event at Concord in 2018, recalled a tense moment when a crew member was screaming over the radio, warning him about Matt Hirschman approaching and advising him to protect the bottom.
These champions all share an appreciation for the legacy of Charles Kepley, who founded the Shootout. The event continues to attract a high caliber of competitors, ensuring that the tradition of showcasing Modified racing's best remains strong.
Source: RaceDayCT