Spring 50: What We Do/Don't Know

Florence Speedway's Spring 50 is upon us.  The temps look great (Intellicast is calling for a high of 77 and a low of just 59) and if Mother Nature let's the King Family get this one in, it should be a damn good show with a pretty talented field of drivers. Let's take a look at what we know and don't know heading into Saturday night's race.

Eddie Carrier Jr. turns away Don O'Neal in the 2011 Spring 50. (Jeremey Rhoades photo)

WHAT WE DON'T KNOW:  Will the track surface be the "black ice" that Florence has become known for, or will it be the tacky hammer down surface that always seems to show up this time of year?
WHAT WE DO KNOW:  This was one of the mildest winters on record...and it's been 70+ degrees every day this week (and somewhat windy at times).  Depending on the weather Friday and Saturday, we might see a more "tradition" look to Florence Speedway this weekend.


WHAT WE DON'T KNOW:  Where will the winner start?  
WHAT WE DO KNOW:  No matter what the track surface is like, you can typically race anywhere at Florence.  Remember, Jeep Van Wormer rallied from the 20th starting spot in 2009 to get get the $5000 paycheck.  And he did this after starting 14th and winning the second consolation race.


WHAT WE DON'T KNOW:  What will the car count be this year?  
WHAT WE DO KNOW:  The car count was surprisingly low last year with 28 entries. However, the previous two years' car counts were 42 (2010) and 57 (2009).  Look for the number of entries to rebound from last year's tally...I'm predicting between 35-40.


WHAT WE DON'T KNOW:  Who are the early favorites to win this race?  
WHAT WE DO KNOW:  Don O'Neal has won the Spring 50 four times in the last 13 years. Also, keep an eye on any driver with a "Club 29" decal on their car.

WHAT WE DO KNOW:  Defending race winner Eddie Carrier Jr. will not be there racing.

WHAT WE DON'T KNOW:  Will Little Eddie be there incognito?  Hmmm...


WHAT WE DON'T KNOW:  What's going to happen Saturday night?

WHAT WE DO KNOW:  Whenever you go to Florence Speedway, it's usually a good time...I hope to see a lot of folks there supporting this early-season show.