Where in Georgia can you go to a track the locals affectionately call "The Melon"? Watermelon Capital Speedway in Cordele, Georgia of course. Last weekend was supposed to be a big weekend for WCS but Mother Nature had other ideas. So, all events have been moved to this Saturday and it's looking to be a beautiful weekend for it. Thank you Mother Nature. The track will be running Bandolero, Go Karts, Legends, Enduro, Pure Stock, Mini Stock, Pro Challenge Series, and Outlaw Late Models. Phew! That is what I call a list. Lots of classes which means lots of really great racing and something for everyone. Donnie Jones, the track promoter, has so much planned for the track I can hardly keep up! I could tell keeping things exciting and interesting at WCS is a top priority to him.
I had to know about the connection with a very popular driver in Nascar, David Reagan, and the track. David's uncle, Marvin Reagan is the track owner and a huge force behind Cordele's success. Cordele is one of only 3 asphalt tracks left in Georgia and it's D-shape makes it unique compared to other asphalt tracks. While most other tracks have only one groove, Watermelon Speedway's d-shape helps create better racing for drivers by having more than one groove. I saw this during Speedfest in January when Bubba Pollard and Kyle Busch were vying for the top spot. Bubba got in a high groove and Busch took an opportunity to capture the lead on the low side. I'm hearing rumors that there will again be another Speedfest in 2013 but we'll have to wait and see. I've got my fingers and toes crossed. WCS opened in September of 1982 and is celebrating it's 30th anniversary this year. This season has seen a car count pick up and fan attendance pick up due to the behind the scenes planning of the track officials, promoters and owner. Another Speedfest is planned for the weekend of October 26-27. The CRA sanctioned event will be called the Watermelon Twins, and will again see the names of Chase Elliot, Ross Kenseth, and Hunter Nemechek. I had such a great time last time I expect this one to be even better.
This weekend's Outlaw Late Model race is a 50 lap feature with an expectation of 15-20 cars to show up. They have had drivers from as far north as South Carolina show up for this race. An Outlaw Late Model is an asphalt chassis car with a dirt body and runs a crate motor with power restricted by a smaller carburetor. The rules can be found here. Watermelon Speedway is hosting 8 of their races this year and some of the drivers expected are Billy Chancy, Stuart Dutton, and David Murphy. Matthew Wragg who won the last race of last season is definitely one to watch in this race.
The list for upcoming races for Watermelon Capital Speedway is a very long one but one in particular is coming up in a few short months and that's the TBARA out of the Tampa Bay area. On June 2nd the winged sprints will come roaring into Cordele with the outlook good for them to break the track speed record. These cars are capable of speeds up to 140 mph. Did someone say speed? You now have my complete attention. Plus I like sprints. Win win if you ask me. For more information on this weekend's race or any upcoming events you can call Donnie Jones at 678-572-0172 or check the website here. Lots of excitement planned at "The Melon" and I hope to see you there!
Big T's
