February 1, 2004 Jay Middleton Receives First Pete Orr Sportsmanship Award at New Smyrna By Jane Smith -KARNAC.com The weather was not good for racing but Jay Middleton of Lake City did not see the clouds and drizzle. Jay and a number of Super Late Model drivers made their way to New Smyrna Speedway in hopes of winning the first Sunbelt race of the year, Pete's race. A special award had been planned for the night, the first Pete Orr Sportsmanship Award presented by KARNAC.com and Goodyear Tires and Larry Robinson. The winner of this award was to be annouced during driver introductions with the Sunshine Foundation present as being the receipents of the $1500.00 donation given to a charity in Pete Orr's name. Everything was set for the night's activities except the weather which did not cooperate. The Pete Orr Memorial Orange Blossom 125 was postponed until May 22nd but it was decided to give the trophy to the winner and have another presentation during the May 22nd race. Standing in the drizzle surrounded by his crew and family, Jay Middleton was totally surprised to receive a silver trophy from Jack Smith, owner of KARNAC.com as the first winner of the Pete Orr Sportsmanship Award. "This award means more to me than you know," said a surprised Jay Middleton. "I never expected this honor and I will do my best to live up to this award." Jay Middleton is 19 years old and the 2003 Florida Pro Champion and runner-up to Sunbelt Super Late Model Champion Wayne Anderson. Throughout his racing career, Jay has shown nothing but sportsmanship and has always been fair to his fellow racers. "Pete Orr was a very special man who was a true gentleman on and off the track," said Jack Smith. "You have shown the same traits in your racing and we are proud to present this award to Jay Middleton." On May 22nd, a proud Jay Middleton will be recognized before his fellow drivers and fans as the winner of the Pete Orr Sportsmanship Award. Also present will be the Sunshine Foundation who grant dreams to chronically ill children, physically challenged, and abused children. "Each year a driver will receive the Pete Orr Sportsmanship Award based on votes from track promoters, series directors, and track owners. The monetary part will only grow as more sponsors join in to honor Pete Orr by donating money to different worthy charities each year in Pete's honor," said Jack Smith. Jay Middleton never got to race Saturday but he took home the best trophy he ever won. Congratulations Jay, Pete was smiling down on you. -Jane Smith KARNAC.com Have an opinion on this story? Post a message on our Message Board! <news@karnac.org>or send a letter to the editor!