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SOPHIA, N.C. (October 21, 2025) — As preparations continue for the 23rd Annual John Blewett III Memorial North-South Shootout in Memory of Charles Kepley, scheduled for November 7–8, 2025 at Caraway Speedway, a wave of young Modified talent is getting set to make its mark on one of short track racing’s most storied events.
The North-South Shootout has long been known for bringing together the best from both regions in a showdown steeped in tradition. This year, that legacy grows stronger with an influx of fresh faces eager to etch their names into the event’s history. Among those looking to make their first start in the prestigious Modified feature are Sean Verwys, Jeffrey Battle, Max Handley, and Joel Belanger.
“We’re really proud to see so many new teams and drivers joining us this year,” said Darren Hackett, race promoter, and owner of Caraway Speedway. “It shows the respect racers have for this event and how strong the North-South Shootout continues to be.”
Sean Verwys, from East Stroudsburg, PA, balances a full-time role working on the No. 1 JR Motorsports Xfinity Series team with limited starts in the Race of Champions’ Tour-Modified and Sportsman divisions. Running the family car, he enjoys trading tools for the steering wheel.
Despite his young age, Jeffrey Battle, of Westford, MA, is already a decorated racer. He is a four-time winner of the 350 Supermodified portion of the Star Classic at Star Speedway and has captured five straight track championships in the division at Star. In 2025, he added to his growing résumé by winning the Busch Light 350 Super Classic at Oswego Speedway, marking four in a row and six overall in the prestigious event. Transitioning to the Modified ranks in 2024 and 2025, he’s gaining confidence with every lap behind the wheel of the Bobby Webber Racing #19.
Max Handley of Medford, NY, a Riverhead Raceway regular, has competed in multiple divisions, including Tour-Type and Crate Modifieds. He was the 2024 Street Stock championship at the speedway. He moved up to open-wheel competition in 2025, kicking off the 2025 season at the World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at New Smyrna Speedway; scoring one win in the 602 Modifieds and two runner-up finishes. He also made two SMART Tour starts in 2025.
This Snow Camp, NC driver may have the home track advantage. Joel Belanger claimed the 2025 Caraway Speedway 602 Modified track championship, his first in a full-size car and fourth overall, and made his SMART Tour debut at Caraway in the Robert Jeffreys Memorial on September 7. He’s hoping a strong showing in the Shootout will set the stage for a partial SMART Tour schedule in 2026. The Shootout is also a strong platform for Belanger to continue raising awareness for Public Works First Responders in partnership with APWA-NC.
From its early days at Concord to its current home at Caraway Speedway, the North-South Shootout has embraced tradition, fed rivalries, and hosted a wide variety of Modified talent. The addition of rising stars to the 2025 lineup underscores the event’s stature and enduring appeal. While seasoned veterans continue to chase the coveted trophy, the participation of new talent ensures the Shootout’s future remains as bright — and competitive — as ever.
Fans can expect a full weekend of excitement November 7–8, featuring Tour-Type Modifieds, ISMA/MSS Supermodifieds, 602 Modifieds, as well as Chargers, Vintage Fall Nationals, and more. New for 2025 is the Rivalry Reloaded: Crown Vic Clash on Friday night with a winner’s take of up to $5,000.
For ticket information, schedules, and updates, visit CarawaySpeedway.com, NorthSouthShootout.com or follow @NorthSouthShootout on social media.
