Motorsports

ARCA drivers brawl during race

By ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published September 26, 2006

TOLEDO, Ohio - A wild fight broke out during a stock-car race in which a driver took a running leap and jumped with both feet through the plastic windshield of another car.

One driver tossed his helmet at the other, and the two then traded punches. Both were suspended indefinitely.

The mayhem Sunday began on Lap 112 of the Glass City 200 ARCA race at Toledo Speedway.

A car driven by Michael Simko hit the wall after he dueled for position with Don St. Denis. Simko ran toward St. Denis' car, which was stopped on the track, according to a video and an account on the Web site of the Automobile Racing Club of America, which sanctioned the race.

At a full run, Simko jumped through the windshield. Simko then fell from the car to the ground, got up and hurled his helmet at St. Denis, who was still in the driver's seat.

After race officials ordered Simko to the infield, St. Denis rushed him.

The two threw several punches at each other before they were separated.

Both drivers have been suspended from ARCA-sanctioned events, Scott Schultz, general manager of Toledo Speedway, said Monday.

Jack Landis won the race.

[Last modified September 26, 2006, 01:25:20]