USAR: Lakeland USA Speedway preview

Tim william - motorsport.com

The USAR Hooters Pro Cup series makes it's second visit of the season to USA International Speedway on June 3 for the Lucas Oil 250. Every visit to USA Intenational gives the fans exactly what they look for in a Hooters race..intense excitement, fierce competition and a terrific evening of racing. The points race is already heating up after five races and the Lucas Oil 250 could prove decisive for many of the top drivers.=20

Mardy Lindley, with two back-to-back wins to his credit, leads the points race with 778 points, only five points ahead of Mario Gosselin in second place. Look for Mario to run well at USA International. Mario has a great crew and a great sponsor behind him so I'm sure he will make a great run for the checkered flag on June 3. A win would put Mario out in front in the points race and I'm sure he is fiercely determined to win this race.=20

Although Bobby Gill has had his share of tough breaks, USA International is the track where Bobby can win races. Gill placed second last weekend at Peach State on and knows how to get to the front of the pack at just the right time. Watch for Bobby to come on strong and race hard. Bobby is trailing the points leader by 77 points and a win at Lakeland is what he needs to get into position for the mid-season races. Remember, though, Gill doesn't need to win races. He only needs to race consistently and consistency won him a championship last year!=20

The rookie points battle is already putting fans on the edge of their seats as Jon Wood and David Pletcher battle for the lead. Jon Wood leads Pletcher by only ten points after Pletcher closed the gap at Peach State with a strong seventh place finish. Wood finished thirteenth but still maintains a slim lead for Rookie of the Year. Wood is a determined young driver with a determined team and a very fast racecar. During pre-season testing Wood's crew told me emphatically that they are here to win a championship and will accept no less.=20

So come on out to USA International Speedway in Lakeland, Florida on June 3rd. Gates open at noon, qualifying begins at 4:30 and racing begins at 8:00 PM. Bring the family because there is no better way to experience racing than at a Hooters Pro Cup event. Orlando RaceNet will provide all the results, reports and photos following the race. Hope to see you all there!=20