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Peter Murphy has been retired from racing since an injury in 2013, but continues to organize the Peter Murphy Classic. (Tim Holland photo)

Sprint Car Challenge Tour To Race Peter Murphy Classic

TULARE, Calif. –- The Sprint Car Challenge Tour presented by Elk Grove Ford and Abreu Vineyards is set to take part in both nights of the Peter Murphy Classic on May 13-14. 

The event has become one of the most anticipated race weekends of the season in Central California, with the tour drivers competing alongside the NARC 410’s each night at the event.

The Peter Murphy Classic begins this Friday at Tulare Thunderbowl Raceway, before finishing up at Keller Auto Speedway in Hanford on Saturday.

The race is organized by the now retired racer Peter Murphy, who suffered injuries during a crash at Antioch Speedway in 2013.

The accident ultimately forced him to step out of the seat, having suffered a traumatic brain injury, a compressed T-3 vertebra and ligament damage in his neck, shoulder and knees.

The following year, he arranged the inaugural Peter Murphy Classic. This season will mark the eighth edition of the race, as it shapes up to be an eventful night. 

“I really want this weekend to be a memorable one for all the fans and teams once again,” said Murphy, who now fills the role of promoter at Keller Auto Speedway. “I still can’t thank everyone enough for all they did after my accident. It was so humbling to have support from people all over the world. This is a way for me to continue giving back and show how much I appreciate the sport we all love. We’re excited to have the Sprint Car Challenge Tour as part of the Peter Murphy Classic both nights with NARC.”

With two races complete for the Sprint Car Challenge Tour, it’s Justin Sanders out of Aroma, Calif., who sits atop the standings. Fremont’s Shane Golobic is only three markers back in second, while Roseville’s Sean Becker sits three digits out of the lead in third.

Auburn’s Andy Forsberg and Modesto’s Tony Gomes round out the top-five.

Both nights at the event will be co-sanctioned with the locally based Kings of Thunder Winged 360s.