From staff reports
Kyle —
Thunderhill Raceway is getting ready to begin its 11th season with some changes in store for local racing fans at the 3/8-mile asphalt track.
Racing begins Saturday, as track employees, drivers and crew members have been working hard to make the 2010 season a successful one.
Open test-n-tune practice sessions began the first Saturday in February, as drivers have continuously worked to fine-tune their race cars each weekend as Saturday’s opener approaches.
Changes for the upcoming season include an expanded Midway area near the front entrance to the grandstands. Various food booths will be available and fans will be given the opportunity to interact with the drivers at the new Drivers’ Autograph Booth.
Kids can also expect to have lots of fun this year with inflatable bouncers, bike races and rides in the race cars on the track.
“We went through a few rough spots at the end of last year, and we weren't sure if we’d even be able to keep the track open in 2010,” said Mary Ann Naumann, THR’s Owner and Promoter. “Fortunately, we were able to work out an agreement with the landowner and we plan to make this year the best one ever — and hopefully for many more years to come!”
Naumann said she is happy that the fan-friendly will continue to thrive in Central Texas.
“Stock car racing is my life, and we’re so lucky to have a great car count and lots of dedicated drivers at Thunderhill,” Naumann said. “It’s our goal to showcase our drivers and make them more available to the fans. We also feel that we have the best entertainment value in the area with four to five hours of jam-packed, up-close racing action on a Saturday night.”
The racing agenda for Saturday night includes the fan-favorite TSRS (Texas Super Racing Series) Late Models along with the TSRS Allison Legacys, Texas Pro Sedans, Dwarf Cars, SportMods, ASA A-Line Super Stocks, Thunder Stocks, Grand Stocks and Mini Stocks.
Kids' bicycle races are also on Saturday’s list of activities, and kiddie rides (in the race cars) will also be offered at the end of the night.
The grandstand gates open at 4 p.m. with qualifying starting at 4:30 p.m. A driver autograph session is scheduled for 5:15 p.m., as the racing action begins with heat races at 6 p.m.
Admission is $12 for adults, with a $2 discount for seniors, military and police and EMS personnel (with ID). Children 12 and under are free.
Thunderhill is located at 24801 IH-35, on the access road just north of San Marcos near Yarrington Road (Exit No. 210).
