TDN's Dirt Late Model Dream Preview

Hey there race fans, unless you've been living under a rock, you probably know that Eldora is having a big shindig called the Dirt Late Model Dream coming up this weekend. But in the off chance you don't, don't worry, we've got you covered with everything you need to know about the show. In typical big race preview style around here, this is what we're going to do. Remember the five Ws you learned about in school? That's the route we'll take with this preview, and then we'll add a couple predictions at the end. So let's get the green flag flying on this preview. 

Who? Somewhere between 75-100 of the very best dirt late model talent the nation has to offer. Expect to see just about all of the the drivers from both the Lucas Oil and World of Outlaws tours, a large contingent of the best regional drivers in the country, and a hearty helping of Ohio locals. 

What? Three nights of racing action. Thursday will see a full program starting with qualifying, after which the field will be split into two groups and each group will run it's own heats, consi(s) and feature, paying 5k to win. Friday will see the same format, but the twin features will pay 10k to win instead. Saturday is slightly different format wise. The program will consist of heats, with lineups set based on results of the preliminary nights' results, consis, and then the feature, which will pay a cool 100k to win. Bonus: Promoter Roger Slack really likes pyrotechnics and fireworks. The display will probably be nicer that the one you see in about a month on the 4th of July.

Where? The legendary Eldora Speedway, in Rossburg, Ohio. The house that Earl built is a high banked half mile in western Ohio that even non-dirt fans know about now that it is A: currently owned by Tony Stewart, and B: Nascar's Eldora Dirt Derby. If you happen to want to head out to the Dream or one of their other huge race weekends, directions can be found here.

When? Thursday, June 7th through Saturday, June 9th. 

Why? Because dirt late model racing is flippin' awesome. 

  

How? Luckily, there are a couple different options for you to check it out. Tickets are still available for the race if you want to attend and can be purchased here. If that's not an option, but you still want to check out the action, our friends at Dirt on Dirt will be broadcasting the race on a pay per view basis.  

Now, for some predictions. I'll go it somebody who will win, somebody who won't, and and somebody who could Shock the World. 

Who will win:

 

Scott Bloomquist. He's the best dirt late model driver in history, and he's not showing any signs of slowing down. He's always very good at Eldora, and I wouldn't expect this year to be any different. I'd say there's like a 75% chance he's holding up the cardboard check over his head on Saturday night. 

Who won't win: 

 

Darrell Lanigan. Yes, I know, he won a prelim night at the Dream last year, and swept the prelim nights at the World 100 and that he's won the Dream before. However, he's been wildly inconsistent this year, and that's not what you want heading into Eldora. He may very well win a prelim or two this weekend, but I just don't see him being a factor when it matters. 

Who could shock the world:  

  

Josh Richards. Yes, I know, Richards winning any race really shouldn't be shocking. He's won a giant pile of races and national touring championships. Thing is, this is Eldora, and he's never been particularly good there. One of these years, he's got to break through, though, and this year could definitely be the year. 

And that's our preview for this year. Hopefully were were able to answer any questions you may have had and/or got ou hyped for the weekend.