Clearfield prepared for hefty payout

CLEARFIELD — A hefty payday the night before the nation’s birthday should attract some of the nation’s best dirt late model drivers tonight to Central Pa. Speedway for the Yankee Doodle 50.

With a $10,000 winner’s share, the 3/8-mile track’s signature event has fielded interest from regulars on the O’Reilly All-Star Late Model Series as well drivers who usually compete on the World of Outlaws Late Model Series, which does not have a race scheduled Friday.

That means standouts such as defending race champ Keith Barbara, of South Park, current All-Star points leader Boom Briggs, of Bear Lake, Mike Blose, of New Bethlehem, and John Flinner, of Zelienople, plan to compete.

Even NASCAR driver Ken Schrader — known for his love of racing at various venues across the country — has pondered an entry.

“We’re expecting quite a turnout,” director of operations Dan Bainey said. “We’ve had some of the top guys in dirt racing at the speedway for this race before and, with $10,000 to win, I’m sure there were be some more to add to that list.”

Last year, Barbara held off Outlaws regular Chub Frank, of Bear Lake, and South Park’s Jared Miley for the victory worth $7,000.

With a dry, sunny forecast for Friday, track officials anticipate a good crowd for the event, which also includes a street stock race paying $1,000 to win.

Pit gates opens at 3 p.m., with hill parking and grandstands opening at 4 p.m. Hot laps begin at 6 p.m. with time trials at 6:30.

General admission tickets cost $20. Tickets for children age 6 to 15 cost $10 and children 5 and under are free.

In addition, speedway officials are giving away 10 gas cards worth $50 each from Snappy’s Convenience Stores. People may enter the drawing by presenting a receipt from a Snappy’s location at the track.