Tradition continues with the 51st running of the NAPA Auto Parts Spring Sizzler at Stafford Speedway on May 12-13.
Here’s what you need to know about the “Greatest Race in the History of Spring.”
The Cars:Â Open Modifieds
Often referred to as “Tour-Type,” these 600 horsepower beasts are some of the fastest short track cars around. The open modified is the same as the cars that compete on the Whelen Modified Tour.Â
The Drivers: Past Winners Lead The List
There are 44 modified drivers currently entered in the Sizzler.
Past winners Doug Coby, Bobby Santos, Woody Pitkat and Matt Hirschman headline the entry list. Other drivers include Craig Lutz, Jimmy Blewett, Nick Halkowicz, George Bessette, Jr., Stephen Kopcik, Bryan Narducci, Matt Galko, Jeff Gallup, Tommy Barrett, Jr., Chase Dowling, Ron Silk, Max McLaughlin and Jon McKennedy, among others.Â
The Race: Qualifying Format & Lap Count
Heat races will take place on May 12 and will be eight laps each. The lineup will be set by a random draw. Next will be the NAPA Auto Parts Duel, also on May 12, which involves two 40-lap races with starting positions set from the heat races. The top 10 finishers in each duel will transfer directly to the Spring Sizzler feature.Â
Drivers who finish 11th or worse will compete in the 15-lap Last Chance Qualifier on May 13.Â
Two provisionals will also be awarded. One provisional for the most recent Spring Sizzler winner and one provisional for the best average finish in Stafford open modified competition last year — driver must have competed in all five open modified events.
The 51st running of the Spring Sizzler will take place on May 13 and will be 100 laps.Â
The Prize: $20,000
While total prize money for the event amounts to $140,000, the winner will be handed a $20,000 check.
There is a bonus of $150 per lap led. Also, on Friday, $3,500 will be given out to each winner of the duel.