Practice Day for ValleyStar Credit Union 300

RIDGEWAY (WSLS 10 SPORTS) -

It's October which means the Martinsville Speedway is heating up. Thursday the track held practice for late model stock cars ahead of the ValleyStar Credit Union 300.

"It's NASCAR's most prestigious late model stock car race. The 200 lap event pays $25,000 to the winner and features more than 75 teams in the 40 car field. This year the race will feature a new format with two competition cautions at laps 100 and 175.

"It should make it interesting for the fans", said track President Clay Campbell.

"All the drivers will be on 4 new tires when they make that stop at 175 so the 25 laps will be worth watching."

Tommy Lemons Jr. captured his second grandfather clock in 2015 and is hoping luck is on his side this time around.

"You have to have a fast car but you got to keep everything clean and just be there at the end", said Lemons Jr.

"That's what we've been able to do 2 out of last 3 years. Lucks been on our side and we've had good speed."

A homecoming is also in order for one driver. Matt Bowling watched numerous races growing up in Ridgeway. Now Whelen All-American Series National Champ returns in hopes of taking the checkered flag.

"I think we definitely got momentum on our side this time around that we've had a really good year all year and in the past and we have definitely been up-front some through the years", said Bowling.

The ValleyStar Credit Union 300 will be held Sunday October 16th, with heat races set to begin at noon.


About the Author:

Eric is no stranger to the Roanoke Valley. He is a Roanoke native and proud graduate of William Fleming High School.