Dewayne Musick told us that although the use of concrete patching has not been ruled out, he is looking at getting the proper repaving done with asphalt instead. Earlier statements that the track would be paved in turn 3 and 4 with a 375 by 22 foot concrete patch, were met with negative comments by several drivers we spoke with. The drivers felt that it would be bad to have turns 1 and 2 asphalt and 3 and 4 concrete. One driver explained that the concrete patch would result in cars on the outside would be racing with two wheels on concrete and two on asphalt, and that it would be impossible to set up cars properly with the inconsistencies between the corners. Musick said he worked all weekend trying to line up solutions for the track damage, and that it was a slow process getting people to get things done. The engineering firm which took core samples last week were expected to provide results early this week. he also said that once the paving is done, the track could be used with a day or two. He is shooting for April 29th practice and then the reopening on the first day of May. The DeSoto Speedway surface in three and four became a serious problem last year, with drivers having to contend with the track coming up in turns three and four. Then another temporary patch job came apart in the March 28th race featuring ASA’s 300 lap event. DeSoto Speedway usually has 100 or more cars and 2000 fans on hand for it’s Saturday night features. And if the mail in our mailbox is any indication, they are ready for some local racing. DeSoto Speedway is a three-eight mile 12 degree banked oval, and is a favorite among Florida stock car drivers. The track has been owned since 1991 by Musick, who purchased it in an auction from a bank which had repossed it in 1990.
In related DeSoto news, YUFFE’S Restaurant in Bradenton has announced it will hold a DeSoto Drivers Appreciation Day this coming Saturday April 24th. The restaurant will be having half price food and drink for the drivers and their families, and expects to entertain the kids and adult fans with autograph sessions, and lots of surprises. YUFFE’s is located at 5728 14th Street West in Bradenton. -Jack Smith |
