Steven Blakesley
ROSEVILLE, CALIFORNIA (August 28, 2012) – Along with a hearty dose of today’s current racing stars competing in the USAC/CRA and USAC Western Midget races this weekend at the “Louie Vermeil Classic” at Calistoga Speedway, the new Calistoga Speedway Hall of Fame will be inaugurated with eight inductees. Inductees will include Bill Anderson, Charlie Curryer, Bill Deschamps, Brent Kaeding, Bill Sullivan, Le Roy Van Conett, Louie & Alice Vermeil, and Charlie Wolleson.
The Hall of Fame lends even more historical value to the “Louie Vermeil Classic” which is being held during the 75th anniversary season of the half-mile dirt oval in the heart of the wine country. The presence of Grand Marshall “Do-It” Jack Hewitt is an added highlight to the rich history that will be on display over the weekend.
Sunday’s Hall of Fame induction will also feature a very special “Hall of Fame Classic Dash” for cars utilizing USAC Western Classic rules. A combination of 360 and restricted 410 entries will run a 12 lap contest for a whopping $1,250 to win and $350 to take the green flag. This special event is already attracting strong interest including eight-time USAC champion Tony Hunt and multi-time Placerville champion Andy Forsberg.
15 Legends of Racing, including many of the Hall of Fame inductees, will be available for an autograph session during Saturday’s wine tasting event. All proceeds from the wine tasting will go back into the weekend event purse. Current posted awards see the USAC/CRA & Western Classic Sprints racing for $3,000 to win, $300 to start on Saturday and Sunday’s “Louie Vermeil Classic” finale will pay $5,000 to win, $500 to start. The USAC Western Midget show has an advertised purse of $1,500 to win and $200 to start on Saturday along with $3,000 to win and $300 to start for Sunday’s event.
Not only will competitors be traveling from across the United States to be a part of this event, so will many of the fans who make the “Louie Vermeil Classic” truly special. The overall “Racing Reunion” theme extends beyond the on-track activities and Hall of Fame.
Race fans will have the opportunity to view vintage race cars and hot rods on display, along with browsing a busy midway with vendor displays, racing memorabilia, and apparel. One of the highlights every year is the raffle of great vintage racing items, many of which are signed by legends of Calistoga Speedway.
Tickets are selling fast for this one-of-a-kind open-wheel event in Northern California. Reserved and general admission tickets are available by contacting Hunt’s Race World at (916) 773-7223. More information the Louie Vermeil Classic is available online at www.LouieVermeilClassic.net