“NIGHT BEFORE THE 500” SATURDAY AT LUCAS OIL RACEWAY

Tracy Hines of New Castle, Ind. appears to be the overwhelming favorite for victory this Saturday night in the 69th Visit Hendricks County “Night Before the 500” Classic at Lucas Oil Raceway in Brownsburg, Ind.

Hines has more than a dozen USAC victories at the oval and that’s more than anyone in history. Included is a victory in the 2012 “Night Before the 500.”

Saturday’s race opens the 2014 USAC Pavement Midget championship and is part of an event which also includes the Pro Mazda and USF2000 series.

This event has long been a focal point of the open wheel community dating back to 1946. Past winners include A.J. Foyt, Johnny Parsons, Mel Kenyon, Jeff Gordon, and Kasey Kahne.

"The longevity of this event transcends generations, making the Visit Hendricks County Night Before the 500 among the most important and prestigious of all USAC Midget races," said Randy Simpson, General Manager of Lucas Oil Raceway. "Coupled with Pro Mazda and USF2000 competition, race fans will enjoy a thrilling night of open wheel action at one of the most exciting short tracks in all of oval racing."