Event Preview: The First Annual Dirt Classic Presented by Kasey Kahne By Anthony Corini and Kristin Swartzlander As most race fans know, the fabulous Lincoln Speedway has a rich and storied history and has been home to many unforgettable races over its time. Add to that a level of difficulty that’s reserved for a few tracks in the country, with Hall of fame drivers calling it home in the past, even the World of Outlaws have had their challenges recently in the Pigeon Hills, winning just 1 of the last 4 races. With those factors in mind, anticipation is building for what quite possibly might be the biggest race in Lincoln Speedway’s track history - the First Annual Dirt Classic Presented by Kasey Kahne on Saturday, September 27th. And when you combine the largest first-place payout in track history at $20,000 with an exciting format that gives the fans more racing than most shows, the Dirt Classic is poised to become a premiere annual event. Fans should anticipate no-holds-barred racing throughout the night, with a points-system designed to reward consistently fast competitors who can pass race cars, too. Points will be awarded for qualifying, determining a straight-up heat race lineup and a second, inverted heat race lineup. Points will be awarded based on these finishes, as well. The total sum of each competitor’s points will determine the starting grid for the A-main, after B- and C-Main ‘Salvage’ races are completed. With a purse designed to give back to the local racing scene, you can bet the Pennsylvania Posse will out be in full force. Lincoln Speedway is historically known for its tough local competition, and fans can expect to see the likes of Danny Dietrich, Brian Montieth, Alan Krimes, Greg Hodnett, Brent Marks, Lance Dewease, Stevie Smith and the rest of the Pennsylvania Posse to be slicing and dicing to try and make their way to the front in the Dirt Classics unique format. But since the race is unsanctioned and the World of Outlaws are scheduled to compete at Berlin Raceway in Michigan, who else can fans expect to see? The Larson/Marks racing team and their driver, five-time 360 Knoxville Nationals champion Shane Stewart have announced they’ll be trying to steal the cash from the locals. Ex-Pennsylvania Posse fan favorite Justin Henderson will be on hand in the Mark Coldren 07, fresh off back-to-back top-five finishes in the Knoxville Nationals. Two-time and defending Lernerville Track Champion Carl Bowser will be bringing his sharp-looking 10 car to Central Pennsylvania to compete for the first time. But don’t be surprised to see drivers making a long tow for the show, too, like former World of Outlaws regular Craig Dollansky and up-and-coming driver Taylor Ferns, who moved up to the 410’s this year after becoming the winningest female driver in USAC history. Who else can fans expect to see? The only way to find out is to be in the stands on September 27th. The purse and format are enough incentive to ensure the possibilities are nearly endless. Extra motivation will be provided throughout the night, as heat race winners will be paid, the top-two finishing Lernerville regulars will earn a bonus and other cash prizes will be given to the competitors. While the focus in racing is often on the payout, one of the biggest things on the line at the Dirt Classic is the prestige. The $20,000 check will be gladly accepted, but for many racers, winning the First Annual Dirt Classic will be worth much more than the payout – it means their name will be forever etched in the history books. The stage is set. The drivers are prepared. Lincoln Speedway is ready. Are you?
Posted on: Sat, 27 Sep 2014 17:01:21 +0000
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