Toledo Speedway

TOLEDO OH (12-10-08)--On behalf of everyone at the tracks, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

The economy and today's world has changed all of us.  When the schedules are released in the next few weeks, there are some changes.  We're proceeding with all of our plans for 2009 at both tracks; with caution, with optimism, and hopefully with some sense!  We've spoken to many of you since racing has ended; we thought if we could survive 2008....but much has changed since October and the end of the season.  Everyone has been affected by the economic issues of the day; we're asking you to be patient, work together (like you always have, which is why we're still here to talk about this) and we'll make the best of the new season that we can.  It won't be easy for any of us, but if we work at it, stick together and continue to provide the great entertainment value, we'll work through these tough times.  May you and your families enjoy the holiday season and be blessed with employment, health and prosperity!

This is the first of our winter bulletins.  January issue will be posted around the 15^th.  The new schedules will be posted soon on the website.  Flat Rock office is closed; Toledo phone number is 419-727-1100.  Please direct all calls to Toledo.  Please share this bulletin with those who do not use the computer!

RULES:  Changes were sent out before banquet.  They are up on the website!  VERY FEW changes...Sportsman tire rule is same.  LM tire compounds will also stay the same.  An announcement on the LM tire impound question at Flat Rock will be made in the January bulletin.

TAX FORMS/WINNINGS:  1099's will be sent to anyone earning $600 or more.  They are issued to the driver unless you have filed a tax form with us or made provisions.  Call the Toledo office if you need one.

LATE MODEL GOLD CUP: has 5 point races; 3 races at Toledo, 2 at Flat Rock (the way it was several years ago).  Toledo races are a pair of 75 lap races and a 100 lap event; Flat Rock is the 100 and 150.  The Flat Rock 100 lap race is in July for 2009.  Glass City is again an invitational. Sponsorship is in the works.....

MEMBERSHIPS:  will mailed to drivers and car owners only after January 1.  If you need more, call the track.  2009 rule books will be sent with your membership when you join.  Cost is same as 2008.

Car Shows:  March 20/21 at Frenchtown, Monroe; at Westfield Franklin Park in Toledo March 27/28.  NEW-we are moving in THURSDAY night, shows are Friday and Saturday, move out Saturday night.  Should see more folks this way.  WE NEED TO FILL THESE MALLS WITH RACE CARS!!!  Get your car ready early!  These shows are very important in terms of pre-season marketing..not just for the track, but for each team.  Maybe you can keep a sponsor or get one by doing these shows----who knows?

Pad Rentals:  Will be mailed out in mid-February.  2008 renters will have right of first refusal, but must be paid by the due date or you lose your pad.  A waiting list is being compiled at Flat Rock-call us if you have not done so yet to get on the list.

Season tickets/gift cards:  Are now on sale!  You can download the form off the website or call us at the office.  Gift cards are just $25 and make great Christmas Gifts, and they're good at both tracks!

2009 Banquet:  For those of you that plan ahead, the date for next year is Friday, November 6 at Crystal Gardens in Southgate.

RACER'S REUNION/MARFC MEETING:  Saturday, March 14.  Reunion is open to EVERYONE, the whole day is!  Great day with old photos, etc....if you raced around the area, there's probably a photo somewhere of you and your ride!  Reunion is Noon to 5, with Michigan Auto Racing Fan Club Meeting at 6:30 p.m.  Mark this date on your calendar.

ENDURO RACING:  The Enduro races at Flat Rock will all be on Saturday nights in 2009-this is one of our changes.  There will be 4 of them.  Enduro rules will be out in late January.  First one is Saturday, May 23.  The Toledo Enduro, a non-point race, will be Saturday, October 17...pretty much open-competition.  The track for this race will use turns 3-4 of the ½ mile, a portion of the ¼ mile and pit road!  The 24 hour Lemons race used this course last year, and it opened our eyes!  All types of cars...the track layout doesn't give much of an advantage to anyone...and the Racer's Flea Market and Public Flea Market at Toledo will be held on the same day....more later on this event!

And Figure 8 Boat Races are coming to Flat Rock!!!!  We're also looking for school buses-call the track if you know of any for sale, please...

INDOOR MIDGET RACE:  The tracks will have an information booth at the Midget races at the Seagate Center in downtown Toledo Friday and Saturday, December 19/20. 

Again, our best wishes to all of you for a wonderful holiday season.  We appreciate your great support and your work behind the scenes to make both tracks what they are today!  Our thanks to all of you for being a part of ARCA, Flat Rock and Toledo Speedways.  2009 marks Toledo's 50^th Anniversary season........