BRITT, Iowa (Aug. 2, 2002) - For one short evening in a small northern Iowa community, a Pope became a King.

Ron Pope of Mason City proved that a Pope could become a king; King of the Hill that is. Pope received the King status after defeating seven other top IMCA Modified drivers in a bracket competition.

Pope qualified for the special event, sponsored by Unicover of Britt, after placing in the top spot during his heat. Top two finishers in each heat and top two points leader, not already qualified for the event participated. Pope won the bragging rights and title over Keith Schmitz of Swaledale. In the Modified feature, Ron Pope accepted the $600 modified challenge starting in back of 22 cars. The checkered flag fell with Pope in fourth, just short of the cash bonus while giving racing fans a spectacular show. Kevin Stoa of Polk City cruised into victory lane just ahead of Al Hejna of Ventura and Brad Bakken of Garner.

In the IMCA Stock Car class, Brad Haugland of Rapid City took a scary ride down the front stretch as he rolled just past the green flag, coming to a rest on his side against the concrete wall and chain linked fence just feet in front of curious onlookers.

Jeff Dolphin of Forest City went on to capture the win over Ryan Watnem of Humboldt who also qualified for the Big Bud Shootout this Friday in the cash dash. Travis Hoeft of Forest City finished third as Rob Hughes of Humboldt and John Campbell of Belmond each contended for the position.

In the IMCA Hobby Stock class, three complete restarts along with five yellows made smooth moving an alien term.

Shane Monson of Clear Lake managed to maneuver his way into the top spot by lap seven after starting in the ninth spot. Monson held on for the victory over Randy Hadacek and Toby Boothroyd, both of Britt.

While celebrating in victory lane, Troy Worthen of Webster City in the No. 72T car claimed Monson¹s engine. Monson excepted the claim and later backed out disqualifying him for the evening¹s races. The decision not to sell erases the Hobby Stock points leader¹s 626 season points. Earl Webner of Garner now takes the top spot in the Hobby Stock points race with Randy Hadacek close behind.

Ed Green of Algona picked up his 22nd feature win of the season, his ninth at Hancock County Speedway. He sauntered to the checkered flag in the limited 360 Modified class with a commanding lead over Scott Manske of Algona and Al Johnson of Story City.

Cory Gansen of Clear Lake picked up his fifth feature win in Britt this season with an Econo feature win over Matt Bryne of Woolstock and Cory Roe of Webster City.

Racing action continues this week with the long awaited Harris Auto Racing¹s Night of 1,000 Stars and the Big Bud Shootout on Thursday and Friday. Pit gates open at 4:30 on Thursday for the Night of 1,000 stars spectacular featuring Modifieds, Limited Modifieds and Hobby Stocks. Hot laps at 7 p.m., racing at 7:30 p.m.

On Friday, drivers in all classes will compete in a regular points race. At the conclusion of the evening, Kabrick Distributing of Britt will hold their annual Big Bud Shootout. To date, 13 drivers have qualified for the race including Todd Foster, Jeff Dolphin, Rob Hughes, Jim Mitchell, Roger Tripp, Travis Hoeft, John Pletcher, John Campbell, Ryan Watnem, Mark Elliott, Kim Schleuger, Kevin Hoeft and Dave Kuykendall.

Hot laps on Friday begin at 7 p.m. Racing begins at 7:30 p.m. For more information on these two races or to check out your favorite driver¹s point standing, log on to www.hcspeed.com.