Photo By Jen Martin / Woodhull Raceway
Track worker, Neil Stoddard severely injured when struck by the Goodier machine.
Story by Kenny Shupp Jr. Promotions and Consulting LLC
(Woodhull, NY) The biggest night of the 2022 season at the Woodhull Raceway, the Annual Jim Williams Memorial Fireworks and Great 8 Show was marred by the passing of veteran competitor, Art Goodier of Osceola, Pa. The incident occurred during the running of the third and final NAPA 602 Crate Sportsman qualifying heat event when his car sped out of control into the infield area of turns three and four. It was during that time that Goodier’s machine struck corner flagger, Neil Stoddard before shooting across the back straight away coming to rest well outside of the track. Rescue and EMT’s were quickly on the scene accessing the condition of Goodier as other personnel were tending to Stoddard as he laid injured in the infield. Ambulances and Medivac Helicopters were summoned to the track as both Goodier and Stoddard were taken to area hospitals with Goodier being pronounced dead later that night as what was thought to be an apparent heart attack. NYS State Police were on location and continue their investigation.
Goodier has spent decades competing at Woodhull beginning his career in the Mini Stock Division prior to graduating to the Crate Sportsman Division. Goodier also had a stint in the Modified Division before going back to full time competition in the more affordable Crate Sportsman Class in 2022. He visited victory lane on two occasions in “22” on May 14 as well as last Saturday, June 18.
Kenyon Funeral Home in Elkland, Pa will be the location for calling hours for Art Goodier.
Calling hours will be Thursday, June 30, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and at the request of the Melinda Goodier (Art’s wife) they are doing a RACERS SEND OFF for Art. She would like everyone attending to be in their race wear attire. What you would normally wear to the races on Saturday night at Woodhull is what Melinda would like you to wear to the services. Drivers are being asked to wear their fire suits as a tribute to Art. The want to give Art Goodier the respect and proper send off to which he is entitled.
Art Goodier is survived by his wife and his biggest supporter, Lindy who was by his side throughout his entire racing career that spanned decades at the Woodhull Raceway. God Speed!
Stoddard is listed in serious but stable condition after being air lifted to Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pa with unconfirmed reports of several broken ribs along with other pelvic and shoulder injuries and as more information becomes available on his condition it too will be posted at www.Facebook.com/WoodhullRaceway/
Fortunately, Neil Stoddard was the only infield worker that was struck by the Goodier machine as the area was filled with photographers, wrecker crews, as well as several other track workers and technical staff.
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