DAYTONA BEACH, Florida -- The NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Northwest Series drivers get their second shot at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, Wash. this season, but it will be the first chance at taking the checkered flag. The scheduled season opening event on March 27 was postponed due to inclement weather. That event has been rescheduled for September 18.
However, the focus now is on the Oso Lumber 125 that will be held on the inner 3/8-mile track, which will lead to some nose-to-tail racing. The close quarters leads to excitement for the fans from a competitive standpoint, but brings a whole different excitement for the drivers who have to be “up on the wheel” for the entire time. There will be no time for cruise control in this event. Keeping the car in one piece and being in position for a good finish will be the order of the evening.
Current top Auto Meter Rookie and number two driver in the point standings Travis Bennett is admittedly apprehensive about running on the 3/8-mile oval. “I have had just 25 or 30 laps on that track, so I just want to keep the car in one piece and not mess this deal up too bad, but I am looking forward to the challenge.” he stated. “This is a competitive series and with 25 or so cars that close together there is really no telling what will happen. It will be fun, though.”
Last year’s winner in this event was John Bender, who is slated to be on hand to defend his title. Robb Touchette and Ed Watson followed him across the line for second and third. If history prevails, Garrett Evans, who is currently fourth in the point standings after finishing fourth in the last race at TriCity Raceway, will be the man to beat. He is the all-time leader in wins (13) and Bud Poles (16) in Northwest Series events at Evergreen Speedway.
This is the first of three scheduled events at this track for the 2004 season. Call Evergreen Speedway at (360) 805-6100 for ticket information or visit them online at www.evergreenspeedway.com.
- What:
- Oso Lumber 125 (Race No. 2 of 12 in the NASCAR AutoZone Elite Division, Northwest Series).
- Where:
- Evergreen Speedway, Monroe, Wash.
- When:
- 8:45 p.m. (approx.), Saturday, May 8, 2004
- Track layout:
- 3/8-mile oval
- Race length:
- 125 laps/46.88 miles.
- Posted awards:
- $43,212.
- 2003 winner:
- John Bender.
- 2003 polesitter:
- Robb Touchette
- Top 10 in points:
- 1. Jason Jefferson 180, 2. Travis Bennett 170, 3. Brandon Riehl 165, 4. Garrett Evans 160, 5. Wes Rhodes 155, 6. Joe Benedetti 150, 7. Shane Biles 146, 8. Steven Howard 142, 9. Rod Schultz, Sr. 138, 10. Tom Sweatman 134.
- Pre-race schedule (all times local):
- 10:00 a.m. Registration opens, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Practice, 3-3:30 p.m. Practice, 4:30 p.m. Time Trials, 7:00 p.m. Qualifying Race.
- Track contact:
- Mickey Beadle, (360) 805-6100.
