KALISEPELL, Mont. (June 3, 2011)-One of the most prestigious late model events on the West Coast returns for its 21st season with several new features as the Coors Light Montana 200 presented by TTC and Kalispell Toyota entry information has been released.
New this year will be a qualifying format that locks into the A-Main the top-14 fastest qualifiers, an additional two drivers over years past. The race will also offer a pay scale for the Last Chance Qualifying race that transfer the final five starting positions into the July 16 Montana 200 line-up-something that had not been down in its 20-year history.
A driver that wins the Montana 200 will take home a $15,000 pay check and could earn up to $20,200 should they meet all of the purse requirements. The race pays $1,000 to any driver that takes the green flag in the main event.
As in years past a discount is offered to teams that pre-enter the event. In 2010 45 drivers registered for the Montana 200 with 42 taking qualifying runs and a field of 26-cars locking into the 20th Anniversary edition of the acclaimed race.
Gary Lewis is the defending and four-time Montana 200 champion but this year’s event may yet be his biggest challenge as 2010 runner-up Jason Fraser and last year’s third place driver Jeff Jefferson have confirmed they will be entering the race again this summer. Also expected to join the ranks will be past champions Mark Owens, Cory Wolfe and Tim Elliott along with defending Kalispell Toyota Late Model Series champion, Bodie Morton.
“The Coors Light Montana 200 presented by TTC and Kalispell Toyota has grown to be a highlight for many drivers each summer,” said Montana Raceway Park general manager Doug Pace. “This year’s event features an all late model format for the race teams and fans, an increased purse and some of the best drivers from across the United States and Canada vying to put their name on the list of those who have won this race.
“We look forward to hosting the teams and a strong turnout of fans for this year’s Montana 200.”
Pre-entry information is available at the tracks website www.montanaracewaypark.com or a form can be mailed by contacting the track offices at (406) 257-7223 . Additional information on happenings at Montana Raceway Park can be found on their Facebook page and the website.