Fairbury American Legion Speedway

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Fairbury American Legion Speedway prepares for Prairie Dirt Classic

 Media Contact, Darin Stewart (309) 699-6789

Each year a happening in Central Illinois draws race-fans and racecars to Fairbury, Illinois. That event is known as the Prairie Dirt Classic, hosted by the Fairbury American Legion Speedway on Saturday, September 4, 1999. This year marks the 10th annual Prairie Dirt Classic, and features the largest purse in the history of the Fairbury American Legion Speedway. With a $10,000 check going to the winner, the first thought might be that the purse drops off fast. That would be incorrect, as the 20th place finisher, last in the feature also receives $1,000. In between, 2nd place receives $5,000, 3rd place gets $3,500, 4th place gets $2,500, and a fifth place will net $2,000. The feature will consist of 60 laps run under UMP rules, with UMP points awarded. Also on the card for the night will be a complete show for UMP Modifieds, and Street Stocks as well.

Adding to this years proceedings will be a partner event with Route 66 Raceway in Joliet Illinois. On Friday September 3rd, Route 66 will host the Prairie Dirt Classic by Chilli Man Chili, as a $10,000 to win UMP feature. Along with the late-models, they will also host a $1,000 to win UMP Modified feature.

A look back at previous Prairie Dirt Classic reveals, that both local drivers, and national stars have achieved success in the event. The inaugural event in 1990 featured two races essentially, with a high dollar dash for cash, and the feature. Mike Mullvain took the dash, and Cary" Snooky" Dehm taking the checkered flag in the main event. In 1991 Kevin Weaver took his only victory back to home to Gibson City IL. In 1992 Billy Moyer Jr. ventured in for the race, and took the trophy home to Arkansas, which he also did in 1993, then he returned in 1998 to add a third trophy to his collection. Bob Pierce of Danville IL, took the 1994, and 1995 editions, and John Gill took the 1996 race trophy back to Mitchell IN. In 1997 Billy Drake passed a fading Bryan Dunaway with 9 laps to go, to take home a popular victory.

A look ahead to this years race shows several favorites to score a win. Billy Moyer Jr., has intentions of becoming the only 4 time winner, and hopes to take home the $10,000 check. Coming off a win in the UMP Summernationals here in July, he has to rank at the top of the list of candidates. Previous winners Billy Drake, and Kevin Weaver are also good bets. Two young drivers are also ready to contend. Sadorus IL, driver Steve Hillard has been dominating the local scene the better part of the season, and appears ready to place the trophy at his house. Lexington IL driver Mark Anderson, has also been gaining speed lately, and could be ready as well. One driver who has been shut-out in the event is Roger Long, and he always is tough at the track, and should contend for the win. With other drivers such as Joe Harlan, Gary May, Bob Pohlman Jr, and other local drivers ready to defend their turf, the traveling drivers may have a battle on their hands to win. Other expected travelers include John Gill, Shannon Babb, Tony Izzo Jr. and Springfield hot-shoe Joe Ross Jr., as well as many others who will take their shot at the most prestigious race in the Illinois

The Fairbury American Legion Speedway is located on the fairgrounds in Fairbury. The Fairgrounds which recently hosted the 123rd annual Fairbury fair, is located next t o local golf course, making it convenient for drivers and fans alike to swing the clubs before the races. The 1/3 mile oval is celebrating it’s 53rd consecutive year of racing this year, with no end in sight.

The ticket prices remain the same as a mere $15 will buy an adult ticket, with kids 6-12, costing $2. the gates open at 10am , and the grandstands will open at 4pm. We will sell you the entire seat, however you will only need the edge. So bring along a cooler, a picnic lunch, and desire to have a great night. We will provide all of the entertainment , and another action packed Prairie Dirt Classic!