The United States Modified Touring Series will return to the Lebanon I-44 Speedway for one final time this season.
by: Luthy, Dusty Dawn

LEBANON, Mo. (June 14, 2006) - One final time at I-44 Speedway in 2006 will local drivers like Jeff Cutshaw, Terry Beckham Jr., Justin Neuman and Steve Martin compete with the top Modified talent in the nation.

Slated to appear is Kelly Shryock. The current points leader and defending USMTS champion won the event the last time the series rolled through Lebanon.

Shryock brings with him Mark Noble, Tommy Myer, Ryan Reuter and John Tesch, the top five in series points. The five split 16 wins among them.

“Like I always say, these are some of the best Modified drivers in the country, racing on one track, for one night,” track promoter Randy Mooneyham said.

USMTS regulars won’t find easy pickings at the speedway. Cutshaw has been on fire the past weeks at the speedway, racking in several wins since their last appearance in May.

With nearly a month-long hiatus, hot shot driver Beckham will return to the speedway. Beckham has consistently been a top local competitor, running as high as first in some USMTS races before succumbing to mechanical failures.

Martin, the speedway Modified points leader, should be recovered from engine problems to add an extra dimension.

“What people don’t realize is these USMTS guys aren’t just bringing the best talent in the nation here, but they’re meeting it head-on,” Mooneyham said. “Our local guys always race competively with them, making any driver work hard for a win.”

Mooneyham expects anywhere from 45 to 50 Modifieds to check in for the event. Forty-six drivers checked in for the previous USMTS race at the speedway.

Late Models, Super Stocks, Factory Stocks, Bombers and Rookies will also be racing.

Grandstand adult admission will be $13 and adult tier parking will be $15. Juniors are $5 and children 12 and under are always free.

“This is going to be one heck of a show,” Mooneyham said.

****Fans and drivers are encouraged to research traffic flow on Interstate 44. Head-to-head traffic has begun for 10 miles of I-44, beginning at the 135 Sleeper exit and ending at the 145 Richland exit. If traveling to the speedway via eastbound I-44, you MUST take the 130 Lebanon exit and continue traveling on Route 66. The 135 Sleeper eastbound exit will be shut down for much of the racing season. The westbound exit remains unaffected at this time.