I-96 Speedway set to Open for 40th Year

Lake Odessa, MI.
By: Lucas Bila

After two very successful weekends of practice, the 40th season of racing at I-96 Speedway starts this weekend on Saturday night May 1st with the fifth annual Ice Breaker.

To begin with, a new configured 3/8 mile track as replaced the old ¼ mile race track. And with over 75 race cars from four cylinders to full blown sprint cars and every thing in between, having taken practice laps, the track is shaping up to be already one of the fastest 3/8’s in the Midwest.

Then add to the mix, an opening night payout of $300.00 to win for the Four Cylinders! This amounts to one of the biggest payouts for this division in the state. With that kind of payout, I-96 is expecting 25-30 of the front wheel drive cars, including some pavement racers trying their hand at the dirt.

Now factor in the $800.00 to win UMP modified feature, along with the UMP Late Models and the UMP street stocks and you have a formula for a huge opening night.

I-96 is pleased to announce one of its major sponsors for 2010, Landrum Spring Sales and Service. They have helped with the sponsorship of the modified feature winner.

“I am really excited to get the season started”, says track owner Mike Mouch. “My family, myself and track crew, along with Mike Strevel have been working night and day for the last 3 -4 months to get the season started.”
“The new track is fast and wide and has a lot of grip”, stated UMP modified driver Mark Anderson after turning over 25 practice laps. “I look forward to racing on it”.

Mouch and his crew has also been working on the restrooms as well as the track as they continue to make upgrades and improvements to the racing facility.
Gates open at 4:00, hot laps at 6:00 and first race at 7:00.

I-96 speedway is located off of interstate 96 at exit 64. Go south ½ mile, then west on Portland road to the track. For more info www.i96speedway.com.