HENDERSONVILLE, NC :: In a statement released moments ago, Kerry Bodenhamer announced his retirement and said that the void UARA left when they suspended operations for the 2014 season has been filled by the recently announced CARS Tour, allowing Bodenhamer to bring an end to the UARA tour.
“When 2014 rolled around we had a lot on our plate with family issues and so we decided to take the year off,” Bodenhamer said in a statement released on the UARA-STARS Facebook page. “When the 2014 racing season started, it was the toughest thing I had endured in a long time by not going to the race track.”
The tour was suspended by Bodenhamer at the start of the season for personal reasons. Bodenhamer cited those personal reasons in his statement, saying it has given him a new outlook on life.
“Shortly after the first of the year I lost my dad, Wink’s dad and numerous friends. It gives you a different outlook on life. Racing has been in Wink and my life for over 43 years. We were very fortunate to make a living doing something we so enjoyed, however as life goes, nothing last forever. The UARA has been a big part of our lives for 12 years. We met a lot of great people and made a lot of good friends over that time.
“We have come to realize this year that there is more in life than racing (never thought I would say that). After a lot of thought and soul searching we have decided to retire and enjoy our family. We are still instrumental in the care of my mother and her wellbeing. With the announcement from the Cars Pro Cup to run the late models on tour, the void we leave will be filled. We have talked to Jack McNelly and wish him the very best in his endeavor. We take this time to thank each and every one of you for being a part of our extended family.”
The announcement that the UARA-STARS tour will not return makes the CARS Tour the sole player as a Late Model Stock Car touring series. The CARS Tour, formerly known as the CARS X-1R Pro Cup Series, announced a relaunch of the series earlier this week – running tours for both the Perimeter-style Late Model Stock Cars and the Straight Rail Super Late Models.
