LEBANON, Mo. -- The 2007 racing season at the Lebanon I-44 Speedway will kick off this Saturday night, March 31, and both drivers and fans alike should enjoy even faster racing with track improvements that took place over the winter.

Track owner Randy Mooneyham laid down red clay in the off season, and the new surface already proved effective at last Saturday's open practice.  Cars from all classes were able to run side-by-side and run the low line around the enitre 3/8-mile high-banked dirt track. The weather was beautiful last Saturday night, and the forecast calls for similar weather this Saturday.

Drivers will compete in seven classes this Saturday night: Late Model, USRA Modified, Factory Stock, Bomber, B-Modified, Rookie and Pro-4. Mooneyham expects to see at least 20 cars entered for competition in each class.  Fans will be able to cheer for their favorite local drivers like Brad Looney, Darryl Mooneyham and Brandon McCormick driving their Late Models neck-and-neck, while Jimmy Willis, Jeff Cutshaw and Justin Newman will fiercely compete in the USRA Modified division.

The 2007 season will mark the 25th year for the Lebanon I-44 Speedway, and will feature upcoming special events like the WOW Sprints on April 21 and Ken Schrader Night with the World of Outlaw Late Models and MARS Late Models on July 3.

Weekly racing is every Saturday night at the Lebanon I-44 Speedway. Grandstand admission for adults is $10 while children 11 and under are free. Admission to the “Wildside” is $12 for adults with children 11 and under free. Gates open at 5 p.m., with hot laps at 6:45 and racing starting at 7:30.