by BJ Cavin
The final practice session for the O’Reilly All Star Circuit of Champions and the Florida Mini Sprints at Ocala Speedway went very smoothly on Thursday night, and drew a solid crowd of onlookers. In addition, the number of teams in the pit area more than doubled as more racers arrived to challenge the historic old speedway north of the city.
The most notable new arrival was 4 time World of Outlaws Champion Donny Schatz and the Tony Stewart Racing Team. Schatz came through the pit gate with his game face on, and wasted zero time in putting down some quick lap times as practice began. Other new arrivals in the pits for the second night of practice included Doug Esh, Jac Haudenschild, Bob Femlee, David Gravel, and Jared Ridge.
Reports at the track during practice indicate that at least a couple of teams may be battling weather problems and bad road conditions in the country’s midsection, and are delayed in arriving in Ocala. As of Friday morning there are still a few expected teams that have not arrived, and they will have to scramble to prepare once they get here.
Racing gets underway tonight with the pit gate open at noon, grandstand gates open at 5PM, and racing beginning at 8PM. Qualifying will take place at 6PM. A full list of prices and a complete schedule of Winternational events can be found at www.OcalaSpeedway.com by clicking the 2010 schedule link.