IRL: Road to Indy program expanded for USAC Midgets

IRL's "Road to Indy" program expands to include Midget Fast Qualifier Awards in 2002

The Indy Racing League's "Road to Indy" program for USAC participants is expanding in 2002 and will include a brand-new Fast Qualifier Award to be presented at each race on the USAC National Midget Series calendar.

In addition to the dispersement of $30,000 in year-end awards to competitors in various USAC racing series, the new Fast Qualifier program will offer race-to-race bonuses of $200 in cash at each venue.

Interior and exterior track signage, display of uniform patches and car decals and increased public address announcements will also serve to raise the awareness level of the IRL's interface with USAC's drivers as the "Starting Line for Champions" and the "Road to Indy" become more synonymous.

USAC's new affiliation with the Quarter Midgets of America as their National Headquarters will be augmented with the Indy Racing League's recognition of the 2001 QMA Grand Champions at a special function tomorrow (January 19) at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway's Hall of Fame Museum in Indianapolis, Ind. Each QMA Grand Champion will be recognized and honored with commemorative plaques and will enjoy museum tours and trips around IMS, courtesy of "Road to Indy."

"We're excited about the QMA visit to IMS," said Joanna Edwards, Manager of Driver Development for the Indy Racing League. "We appreciate the talents of these youngsters who represent tomorrow's USAC and IRL participants and look forward to following their advancing careers."

--USAC--