Senoia Speedway set to start season this weekend

Many racing teams were out in full force preparing their cars and drivers for the beginning of the 2001 season at Senoia Speedway.

The 3/8 mile oval asphalt track woke up from its winter nap as 30 cars circled during Saturday afternoon's final practice. "We're getting ready for an exciting 2001 season starting March 24," said track owner Smitty Lee. "Our regular schedule consists of Bandoleros, Legends, Street Stock, Sportsman, Mini Stock, and Pro Late models. There will also be Thunder Roadsters, Pro Trucks, Sprints, The Southern All Stars, Big 8's 100-lap Pro Late Model Features and Fireworks," Lee added.

There were some new faces practicing Saturday. Sharpsburg's Marcia Bristol is no stranger to racing as her father and brother have both competed at Senoia Speedway. Bristol, a 14-year-old student at Northgate High School, will be competing in the Bandolero Division this season. "I love driving this Bandolero. It's so awesome!" said Bristol. She has driven the car in four practices and will be guided by her father, Mike, who is a Pro Late Model driver.

Another newcomer this season will be Jesse Hurd. Sixteen-year-old Hurd will be driving the Hurd Pit Tools and Equipment/Chevrolet/Monte Carlo in Senoia Speedway's Pro Late Model Division this season. These races will allow this young man the necessary seat time to move him closer to his NASCAR goals. Hurd has moved up to the ranks into the Pro Late Model Series after spending several years in go-karts, where he has won championships.

Not new to racing, but new to the Pro Late Model Division this season, will be Troy French from Gay, Ga. French leaves behind two back-to-back championships in the Mini Stock Division at Senoia Speedway. The French Drain and Pipeline Inc./Knowles Backhoe Service/Jones Backhoe Service/ Blasting Consultants J.F.G & W.J./ 1999 Chevrolet/Monte Carlo will be one of a dozen new Pro Late Model hopefuls this season.

New faces will be seen not only on the track, but behind the scenes as well. Senoia Speedway has made several changes this season to staff and facility. A new concessions manager is planning specials and menus to appeal more to the race crowd this season. The Speedway has a tire and fuel technician whose knowledge will be greatly appreciated.

There have also been some necessary improvements to the track to help the drivers and fans. Senoia Speedway has added several new, larger lights to brighten up those dark areas on and around the track. Also, additional parking has been created for car transports.

Senoia Speedway will open the gates for the 2001 season at 4 p.m. and races start at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 24. For information phone 770-599-6161, or check out www.senoiaspeedway.com. Tickets will be available at the gate and season passes can be purchased online at the Web site.

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