Short-track program at LVMS takes on new look for new year

Las Vegas Motor Speedway's short-track program is preparing for the 2000 season with new tracks, new rules and lower ticket prices, including season passes, and the elimination of one division.

"Our goal is to make Las Vegas Motor Speedway's weekly racing program one of the best in the country," David Stetzer, director of short track events at LVMS, said. "To do that, we felt changes were in order. We have added new classes, tracks, rules and employees in an effort to build the best program possible. We have even lowered the cost for our fans."

The 3/8-mile paved oval is receiving a face-lift during the offseason, including a re-paving. In 2000, the fans will finally have the sun to their backs as the grandstands and start-finish line will move to the opposite side of the track. The season will also offer teams more cost-effective rules and a new entry-level class.

Each regular race program will be a part of the NASCAR Weekly Racing Series and will feature NASCAR Late Models, Grand American Modifieds, Legends, Mini Stocks, Bandoleros and Chargers.

"We chose to eliminate the Limited Late Model division because of low car counts and rising costs," Stetzer said. "This allowed us to add an inexpensive, entry-level class like the Charger division. These are stock cars similar to a Street Stock. Any person that wants to get involved in racing can jump into a Charger and try his luck at the sport without a big investment."

In the NASCAR Late Model and Grand American Modified classes, competitors will have the option to run a limited engine that meets track specifications.

"The addition of two 'spec' motors is far and away the biggest change in the rules," Stetzer said. "Rule changes were made to make racing more affordable for the weekly racer."

The season kicks off March 10 with a practice session followed by the opening race night on Saturday, March 11. The paved oval schedule has 18 race nights and 16 practice nights. NASCAR Weekly Racing Series points conclude Sept. 9 while track points continue until Oct. 7. The final event of 2000 will be Nov. 4.

Pit gates will be open from 6-11 p.m. on practice nights. Car and driver entries will be $15 while others are $5.

On race nights, the pit gates open at 4 p.m., and spectator gates open at 5:30 p.m. Heat races start at 7 p.m. Admission prices were reduced to $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and military, $2 for children 6-12 and children five and under are free. The Family Four Pack is $25.

Season passes are also available for spectators allowing them to save more than 30 percent on admission. For $100, fans will be admitted to all 18 race nights.

For more information on Las Vegas Motor Speedway's weekly racing program call (702) 632-8422 or visit one of the speedway's websites at www.lvms.com or www.gospeedway.com.

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