For Release - March 8, 2010
Jim Irvine - Merrittville Speedway Public Relations

MERRITTVILLE’S FIRST WoO LATE MODEL VISIT HAS SPONSORS STACKED UP THREE WIDE

Thorold, Ontario (March 8) Ever since the announcement following the 2009 World Finals last November – the entire Southern Ontario and Western New York racing community and beyond has been waiting patiently in anticipation of further news on Merrittville Speedway’s inaugural visit of the World of Outlaws Late Model Series.

An extreme event … extreme racing machines … it all adds up to an Extreme Thursday Night at the Thorold d-shaped oval.

Much like the full-fendered machines will align three wide just prior to taking the green June 17th – Merrittville Speedway is proud to announce that Brian’s Tire Repairs … Turn 4 Collision and PineView Drywall have teamed up three wide as presenting sponsors for the thriller that will surely be the biggest event in the 59 year history of the famed facility.

“Brian, Norm and Anthony are some of the biggest race fans and supporters you’ll ever meet!” exclaims (Merrittville GM) Erica Bicknell, adding, “we are quite proud of their support of many of our race teams year in and out … we look forward to showcasing their businesses in what is shaping up to be our biggest event this summer!”

Since early December when Merrittville Super Fan Mike Lindsay purchased the first Ticket Voucher until now – advance ticket sales have been quite steady.

“This is an exciting time for Niagara,” boasted Bicknell, “many of the world’s greatest Late Model drivers will be right in our backyard as the Great Northern Tour races through our area … we encourage fans to get their tickets now – while you may have enjoyed watching them on TV … there is no better way to experience the buzz than trackside!”

Ticket Voucher holders can now look forward to receiving their actual tickets as of this coming week.

Phone orders with VISA or MasterCard can be made at the Speedway’s Winter Office Number – 905-685-7223 until April 1st during business hours.

Race fans can also visit one the upcoming Race Car Shows at Welland’s Seaway Mall (the week of March 15th) or at the Pen Centre in St. Catharines during the week of March 22nd.

Once the Speedway Office opens for the season in April – phone orders continue at 905-892-8266 until May 1st.

Merrittville Speedway is ready to explode into the late model spotlight and for the WoO Late Model fan – the DIRTcar sanctioned showplace is right in the heart of one of the most famous tourist areas in the world.

During last season’s Big Block Modified Super DIRTcar Series 100 lap spectacular – Justin Haers shattered the track record in Integra Shocks Time Trials.

When the more than 800 horsepower machines take to the track the time is sure to be lowered – but by how much … and by who?
Merrittville’s 1st time WoO Late Model event is one of almost a dozen new tracks that the 9 month tour will visit in 2010.

For drivers like defending series champ Josh Richards (Shinnston W.Va.), 2008 Champ Darrell Lannigan (Union Ky.), 2007 Champ Steve Francis (Ashland Ky.), teenage rookie Austin Hubbard (Seaford Del.), Tim Fuller (Watertown NY), Rick Ekert (York Pa.), Shane Clanton (Locust Grove Ga.), Cub Frank (Bear Lake Pa.), current point leader Brady Smith (Solon Springs Wis.), Clint Smith (Senoia Ga.) Russell King (Bristolville Oh) and a host of others – it won’t take them long to get up to speed.

That host of others is expected to include former Champion Tim McCreadie and Billy Decker and like Fuller and King – will their past Modified experiences lead to a stop in Victory Lane?

After February’s DIRTcar Nationals at Florida’s Volusia Speedway Park – the series next event is a return to the Sunshine State for a first ever visit to the d-shaped Ocala Speedway on March 19th.

Ocala - like Merrittville came to life in 1952 and while they share the similar layouts – Ocala also had a stint with an asphalt surface. Time will only tell if the two tracks share first time results.

The inaugural World of Outlaw Late Model Event at Merrittville Speedway will feature time trials, qualifying heats and B Mains as necessary – culminating with a blockbuster of a 50 lap Finale – June 17th.

Going into last year’s Great Northern Tour events, the recently married Steve Francis enjoyed a 44 point lead over Josh Richards. The eventual champ came out the other side with the lead.

As the series continues leading up to Merrittville’s first time event presented by Brian’s Tire Repair, Turn 4 Collision PineView Drywall and brought to race fans by Giant FM 91.7, TV Cogeco, Modern Corporation, Cotton Inc. and IBEW Local 303 Niagara – race fans can visit www.worldofoutlaws.com for all the news or friend them on Face Book or follow them on Twitter.

Brian’s Tire Repairs specializes in Large Truck Repairs of Domestic and Foreign Vehicles. Call their 24 Hour Emergency Service number at 905-646-7508 for mobile service as well or visit their newly expanded and renovated St. Catharines location at 3 Petrie Street.

Turn 4 Collision specializes in complete collision service for all makes and models in addition to minor repairs. Call 905-687-4142 for a free estimate or visit Turn 4 at Unit 51- 113 Cushman Road in St. Catharines.

PineView Drywall is a renovation company that specializes in complete home renovations. From the simplest basement renovation and design to more complex projects such as complete kitchen and bathroom renovations, additions to your home or that custom home theater you have always wanted. Contact PineView Drywall at 905-651-WALL (9255)

Fans following the 2010 World of Outlaws Late Model Series may wish to visit Merrittville Speedway and all that the surrounding Niagara Region has to offer.

Located in the heart of one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world – the track is minutes from the roar of Niagara Falls with its world class casinos and attractions. The Niagara Peninsula is also the most well-known and developed wine region in Canada and North America. Race fans may also wish to make it a doubleheader and enjoy all the action of Saturday June 19th’s Lucas Oil Weekly Racing Series Program.

For further information on Merrittville Speedway’s 59th Consecutive Season – visit www.merrittvillespeedway.com for all the news. Race fans can also friend us on Face Book or follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/merrittville.