OXFORD – Oxford Plains Speedway owner Bill Ryan Jr. announced Wednesday that the 33rd annual TD Banknorth 250 will be held on July 30, 2006.

For the third straight year, the race will coincide with an off weekend for the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series. This will likely open the door for drivers from the elite series to take their shot at the Northeast’s showcase short-track event.

Matt Kenseth has competed in each of the past two seasons. Kurt Busch tackled the 250 in 2004, while his younger brother, Kyle, made his first appearance this summer.

The TD Banknorth 250 has been the region’s premier short-track race since 1974. Fans have flocked to the event over the years to watch the infamous luck-of-the-draw qualifying races, while racers seek a shot at the $25,000 first-place purse.

Sea Dogs pitcher wins award

PORTLAND – Sea Dogs pitcher Edgar Martinez has been selected as the 2005 recipient of the At the Yard Magazine’s “Diamond in the Rough” award winner.

Martinez, who began his career in the minors as a catcher before switching positions last season, recorded one save and a 1.50 ERA in 15 appearances for Portland this season.

The “Diamond in the Rough” award is presented to a minor league player who has risen from obscurity to prospect status by having a breakout season. Martinez began this season in Single-A, before his 1-1 record, seven saves, and 2.10 ERA in 34.1 innings for the Wilmington Blue Rocks earned him a promotion. He joined the Sea Dogs on July 21.

Martinez was presented with the award prior to Portland’s opening playoff game against the Trenton Thunder on Wednesday night.