Thousands to flock through the gates for 46th Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic

General manager David Mills said ticket sales for the three-night event, which starts on Friday, had been strong.

Supporters from across the country are expected to desend on the Allansford track for the 46^th running of the event, providing the south-west economy with a major boost.

“Pre-sold sales are indicating we might be up a little bit (on last year) which would be even better for the club,” Mills said.

“Being fair weather we might pick up some casual observers as well, especially for the final night.

“We are excited we will have that full house sign up on Sunday night.”

Mills said spectators could buy one-day passes from 9am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The last chance for three-night tickets was midnight Thursday.

Pre-paid gates open at 1.30pm and ticket sales are available 9am each day.

Hot laps and qualifying are from 5pm the first two nights. 

“The last night we don’t hot lap and all things being equal with the weather, it’s a quick engine start, into the formalities and heat racing for the night so we can get done at a reasonable hour hopefully and still be able to include all the bling and excitement of the Classic finale,” Mills said.

The fan appreciation day, from 10am-12pm at the Flying Horse Bar and Brewery on Saturday, will give supporters a chance to see their racing idols up close.

Eleven American drivers are among the 111-car Classic field.

“I think we’re in a bit of a transitional phase at the moment,” Mills said.

“A lot of the good (World of) Outlaw guys are busy and tied up with the Chili Bowl etc but we have a good crop of young kids coming through.

“Hopefully we’ll see the next generation of guys, much the same as Brad Sweet and these guys did previously – they came, cut their teeth in Australia and got results in America and we continue to see them year in, year out.”