Affordable heads-up sportsman racing, "instant green" starts, and good times are on tap for Saturday, October 9 at the Mid-Michigan Motorplex. One third of the spectator gate for this exciting and fun day of drag racing will go directly to Montcalm County Toys for Tots to kick off their 2004 fund raising season. Local volunteers will also be on hand to accept toy and cash donations for this worthwhile cause and U.S. Marines will be present to raise the Stars and Stripes.

Every racer receives a small gift, which besides adding a little something fun to the day, reminds us that by being generous, we add to the fun of Christmas day for area children by raising money for Toys for Tots. Last year, we raised over double what we had at our first event and we would like to double our giving again this year.

Cars, motorcycles, and snowmobiles are all welcome to compete. If a racer loses a round, they are not eliminated so every racer can compete in all 3 rounds and end up with 3, 2, 1 or 0 wins out of 3. Regardless of vehicle type, each competitor races only the racers nearest themselves in the qualifying ladder and all racing is done heads up. What makes the racing even more exciting is the use of the "instant green" (no amber lights) Christmas tree. This system closely mirrors a true street race and allows the real fast guys to leave harder. It also renders virtually useless the electronics some racers use to cut a good light. Everyone is on a level playing field.

There will be a corral for show cars and the first 100 racers or show cars will receive a dash plaque. Qualifying starts at 11 a.m., racing starts at 2 p.m. and is projected to finish by 5 p.m. Adult admission is $12, children 11 and under get in for free. Racer's fees are $39. Crewmembers get in for half price and all students get a 25% discount off either spectator or racer fees with school I.D.