LEWIS COUNTY, N.Y. -- Engines revving, rubber squealing. Sounds some in the North Country have been waiting more than six months to hear.
Saturday night, cars hit the asphalt of the Adirondack International Speedway for the first time since October. The season opens with a race called the Renegade 100 and speedway officials say it'll be a big kickoff to a huge season.
"It brings drivers from Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York. The other classes are growing real well. Our four classes are. So we're looking for a very exciting season," AIS Owner Paul Lyndaker said.
Some highlights of the 2008 schedule include a fireworks night July 5th.
On July 26th the NASCAR Camping World Series, formerly known as Busch East, hits town with drivers like Jeffery Earnhardt, grandson of the late Dale Earnhardt and Bobby Hamilton Jr. competing in the "Edge Hotel 150.”
You may also recognize the name Ricky Carmichael. He's new to the series, but he's considered the greatest AMA Motocross/Supercross rider of all time.
Racing season in the North Country is about to get underway. One of the most popular tracks is set to open its season this weekend. Our Brian Dwyer has more on what's in store for the 2008 season at the Adirondack International Speedway in Lewis County.
There are also several special group nights, like the Otis Technology military appreciation night May 24th. On that night, with help from Americu Credit Union and the Lewis County Chamber of Commerce, all active-duty military members and their families get in free.
"We're reaching out to Griffiss Air Force Base looking at active-duty soldiers and active-duty Air Force folks there. We're reaching out to Fort Drum. We want to thank them for all they do for us, our community and the sacrifices they make," Lee Hinkleman of Otis Technology said.
Now in addition to the free admission for active-duty military, there's also a special gift for members of the Wounded Warrior Battalion. The Lowville VFW is cooking up a chicken barbecue provided by Americu Credit Union and will offer dinners to those soldiers for free.
For more information on the military night, call 348-4300.
New this year at the track is a family fun section where drinking, smoking and profanity are not allowed. There's also a campsite that allows people to stay for the weekend.
For a full schedule, visit www.adirondackspeedway.com.