43rd “TONY HULMAN CLASSIC” FRIDAY AT TERRE HAUTE;

SPRINTS VISIT I-96 SATURDAY

The 43rd running of one of America’s longest-running Sprint car traditions unfolds Friday night as the “Tony Hulman Classic” takes to the Terre Haute (Ind.) Action Track. It opens a two-night AMSOIL National Sprint car weekend continuing with Saturday night’s race at I-96 Speedway in Lake Odessa, Mich.

Dave Darland of Lincoln, Ind. sits atop the current point standings, 33 ahead of runner-up Chase Stockon.

Darland is a former “Tony Hulman Classic” champion but it’s been 20 years since his victory. He’s also had a second, two thirds, a fourth and two fifths in the classic.

Mark Cassella was USAC’s last Sprint winner at Lake Odessa, back in 1996. The track was a favorite of Jack Hewitt, a four-time USAC winner there.

Bud Kaeding won last year’s “Tony Hulman Classic.” Former race winners expected to compete Friday include Chris Windom (2011), Jerry Coons Jr. (2010), Levi Jones (2005, 2008 and 2009), Jon Stanbrough (2002 and 2007), Daron Clayton (2006), Tracy Hines (2001) and Darland.

Bryan Clauson stands third in the latest points, just 34 back of Darland, with Kevin Thomas Jr. fourth, 49 behind the leader and Brady Bacon fifth, 51 back.