Based on feedback from area teams, Franklin County Speedway has adjusted its 2018 schedule, including moving the season opener and a 50th Anniversary Reunion from April 8 to May 5.
“The teams have spoken and we listened,” said Donald “Whitey” Taylor, who begins his 40th year as owner of the three-eighths mile oval. “A lot of them are just not going to be ready to race in April.”
Taylor said the additional 27 days will “provide the drivers more time to finish their cars and get sponsorship lined up. We believe this is going to help a lot of our teams.”
FCS General Manager Randy Pettitt said two Sunday afternoon dates set for April 8 and 22 were moved into Saturday night slots in June and July. “We think the fans will prefer more night racing,” he said. “The kids are out of school in the summer and this gives our families two more nights of affordable entertainment.”
Pettitt said the track’s most prestigious event of the season, dubbed “THE BIG SHOW,” featuring a $10,000 to win Limited Late Model race of 100 laps, was moved from July 4th to October 13 to accommodate more teams.
Taylor said the track will hold to tradition and offer fans two days of excitement during the Independence Day holiday period. A pair of 50-lap Limited Late Model races and a Fireworks Show will headline a July 4th event. A Night of Destruction with $5 adult admission is set for July 3, featuring a 50-lap Any Car race, a demolition derby, roll-over contest and other special races.
The 15-event campaign for 2018 will begin on May 5 as FCS honors former drivers, car owners, crew members and track workers in a 50th Anniversary Reunion.
“We’re expecting a huge turnout for the 50th Reunion,” said Taylor. “The legends are returning. We’ve heard from many of them and they are getting excited. This is a great chance for our fans to see some of the heroes who made this place so special.”
