By Larry Boos
ROSSBURG, OH (March 11) – Taking into consideration the popularity of the open practice sessions that have been experimented with over the past couple of seasons, Eldora track officials have decided to combine that concept with the 2011 season opener on April 2. While the competition menu will include the points race kick off for the UMP (United Midwestern Promoters) DirtCar Modifieds and Eldora Stock Cars, the night will feature ample practice time for any other division of race car that wants valuable Eldora track time.
The pit gates will swing open that day at 4:00, with the first hot lap session of the 2011 season on the one-half mile clay oval set to take to the track at 6:30. Racing for the Modified and Stock Car divisions will begin at 7:30, with the open practice sessions sandwiched between the heats, last chance consolation races and main events.
Opening night is always a treat for the fans, as it is their first opportunity to check out any new owner/driver combinations, along with the new design schemes for the cars.
Jon Henry (Modifieds) and Mike Dirksen (Stock Car) have indicated their intentions to return in defense of their Eldora 2010 title runs – a year that found one of the closest points battles in recent memory.
General admission for the opening night action has been lowered to $8 for adults; while pit passes will be priced at $20.
Complete information for this event, and all upcoming Eldora Speedway race meets, will be detailed on the track website www.eldoraspeedway.com