Thursday Night Thompson Thunder Begins on May 12th
Thompson, CT — The popular Thursday night racing program at the Thompson International Speedway begins its new season on Thursday, May 12th. Known as “TNTT”, Thursday night racing action includes six exciting NASCAR Whelen All-American Series divisions along with many special event races throughout the season. May 12th marks the beginning of a season-long schedule filled with a variety of auto racing’s best in the northeast.
Thompson’s “TNTT” race events have become fan favorites due to family pricing, free parking, great food and thrilling high speed competition. The race programs begin at 6 PM and are run at a very fast pace so that fans can enjoy an action packed evening and still get home at an early hour.
Sunoco Modifieds, Super Late Models, Thompson Modifieds, Late Models, Limited Sportsman and Monster Mini Stocks make up the weekly competition. Special events on the 2011 Thompson racing schedule include the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, The Valenti Modified Racing Series, Tour-Type Modifieds and the Pro All Star Series. In addition, extra distance events for Thompson’s “Super6” racers round out a program of exciting family entertainment all season long.
On Thursday, May 5th, one week before the weekly “TNTT” series begins, Thompson will open the pit gates to offer competitors a final opportunity to fine tune their cars. This open practice session, one week prior to opening night, has become a tradition at Thompson and race teams take full advantage of the extra track time to prepare for a long and extremely competitive season.
The annual chase for valuable Thompson and NASCAR points has already begun. The first points race of the year was the Icebreaker back on April 9th & 10th. The weekly season will get off to a great start due to a tie in points between defending Sunoco Modified champion, Ted Christopher and the new driver of the # 31, Ryan Preece. The tie is the result of two races held for this division during Icebreaker weekend. Mike O’Sullivan, Super Late Model ace, ended his 2010 season in second place but currently holds the top spot as a result of his win at the Icebreaker. Another defending champ, R.J. Marcotte, holds the Thompson Modified points lead with a former title holder, John Materas, leading in the Late Models. Joe Coates holds the points advantage in the extremely competitive Limited Sportsman division and it is Danny Field leading the charge in the Monster Mini Stocks.
Complete event schedules, race results, points standings and so much more are all available on the Thompson web page www.thompsonspeedway.com. Fans may also call the track office for more information. 860-923-2280.
Sources: Russ Dowd/Thompson International Speedway PR