UMP Adds Two Entry-Level Divisions To Sanctioning Lineup In 2007

EVANSVILLE, IN  (Nov. 13, 2006) – Two entry-level racing classes will be added to the United Midwestern Promoters (UMP) fold in 2007, bringing to seven the number of divisions sanctioned by the DIRT MotorSports-owned organization.

Best known for sanctioning dirt Late Model and open-wheel Modified racing at nearly 100 tracks across the country, UMP is expanding its divisional lineup with economical Factory Stock and Four-Cylinder classes in hopes of providing aspiring drivers another path to begin an advance through the UMP ranks.

“This is a way to recognize all the racers who are just starting out and make them part of something,” said UMP director Sam Driggers. “Now when they move up to other classes, they’ll already know what UMP is and what UMP can do for them.”

Both divisions will bring tracks’ existing entry-level classes under the UMP umbrella. The Factory Stock classification includes such divisional names as American Stocks, Hobby Stocks and Novices, while the Four-Cylinder class encompasses divisions such as Mini-Stocks, Pure Stocks, Hornets and Warriors.

The UMP Factory Stocks and Four-Cylinders will follow all local track rules with one exception: cars in both divisions must run street tires only.

Both classes will have UMP National points races in 2007. Twenty races will be used to determine the National point standings, meaning drivers will have an opportunity to begin replacing their worst finishes after reaching that mark.

UMP has established a $2,650 points fund for the National points battles, with $500 earmarked for the first-ever UMP national champion in each class. The top 20 drivers in the National standings will receive points-fund cash at the annual UMP Awards Banquet.

“We’re starting with a National points fund for the two divisions,” said Driggers. “If the drivers in the divisions get involved with UMP, we will add more points money in the years to come.”

Drivers must be UMP members to be eligible to share in the Factory Stock and Four-Cylinder points funds. A membership will cost $75 per driver with UMP insurance included.

Upon joining UMP, members will receive the organization’s regular newsletter as well as a membership kit that includes a membership card, decals and other items.

In 2006 UMP sanctioned five divisions – dirt Late Models, open-wheel Modifieds, Sportsman, Limited Modifieds and Street Stocks – and 87 racetracks. The organization will distribute over a half-million dollars in points fund cash during its annual awards banquet on Jan. 20 at the Springfield (Ill.) Hilton.

The 2007 technical rules for all UMP divisions except the Late Models have been released. Competitors can obtain a copy of the rules by visiting the UMP website at www.umpracing.com and printing them; calling the UMP office at 812-426-1200; or contacting their local UMP tracks. Sets of rules will also be available from UMP officials at selected off-season trade shows.

The UMP Late Model division’s 2007 rules are currently being completed and are expected to be released shortly.