By Susan Arnold
PADUCAH, Ky. (April 16, 2013) – Motter Equipment Fatheadz Eyewear Sprint Car driver Joey Saldana is the defending World of Outlaws champion at Paducah International Raceway. In seven years of competition at this facility, there has never been a repeat winner.
When the Outlaws make their lone stop in Kentucky Friday, April 19, Saldana and the 71M team hope to change history by becoming back-to-back victors.
“I really enjoy racing at this track,” said the Brownsburg Bullet. “It is a high-banked 3/8-mile track with long straightaways. I’ve probably only raced here three times and my worst finish has been second place.
“This track has a great fan base and we always like putting on a good show here.”
NASCAR stars Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Kenny Schrader, along with promoter Bob Sargent, purchased the track in 2005. In 2006, three-time NASCAR champion Tony Stewart joined the trio of co-owners.
It is expected that Stewart and Schrader will be on hand for Friday’s event.
“We have a good race car and we hope to continue our string of solid performances in Kentucky,” said Saldana.
On Saturday, the World of Outlaws competitors will set up their pit areas approximately 140 miles north at Tri-State Speedway in Haubstadt, Ind. The Outlaws will open the season at the quarter-mile high- banked dirt oval.
Always the bridesmaid, never the bride, Saldana has finished second in Haubtstadt, but has never won.
“This track has one of the best racing surfaces on the circuit,” proclaimed Saldana, who ranks seventh in World of Outlaws Sprint Car career victories. “We are looking forward to conquering this track and adding another win to our performance record.”