WEBSTER CITY, Iowa — United States Modified Touring Series officials have announced that the driver who claims the USMTS national championship this season will earn a record $100,000 prize.
The move is a homage to Leon Ramirez, who was laid to rest last Saturday, Feb. 19, after a long battle with cancer.
“Few people this millennium have done more to support dirt track racers, their crews and their families than Leon Ramirez,” said USMTS President Todd Staley. “We love and will miss Leon dearly and we will be honoring him in multiple ways this season and beyond.”
The tribute to Ramirez is made possible by S&S Fishing & Rental owners Shane and Shelley Sprinkle, who were close friends with Ramirez and his family.
In addition, the USMTS will begin a new annual tradition of awarding a one-of-a-kind trophy to the USMTS National Champion which, tentatively, will be named the Leon Ramirez Trophy from now until the USMTS sees its final checkered flag.
In 23 seasons thus far, only eight drivers have captured the USMTS national championship. Dereck Ramirez is the reigning champion.