Never been disappointed. The first few heat races sometimes go to one groove then u get bc or tyler thomas hit the high groove then its on with 2 racey grooves for the rest of the night.
Last year, I think there was one five minute period where I had some eye burning. But otherwise the Fumes were a non issue the entire show. However it was warm out, I'd say 50* and the back doors were open to the building.
I think the doors should be open unless its brutal cold. We're dressed for the appropriate weather anyway to get there and leave.
Didn't see a whole lot of empty seats last year, Id say get there early or you may be SRO. This is a killer show with three wide racing and the track gets faster, So fast that they intentionally slow it by keeping it on the wet side. They turn the track around in about 7-10 minutes, I barely had time to step out for a smoke and get back when they reworked.
Probably not going to make it unless I can find a ride and split expenses.
If you can't find a room in DuQuoin. Carbondale is about ten miles south and has plenty of rooms.
Chuck
Just a few tips for those who haven't been there yet. Count on it being cold. They do open the big door and the walk thru doors for cross ventilation between races. Bring your ear plugs and safety glasses if you have them. (They help with the fumes). When they work the track between races, take the time to go into the hall for something to eat/drink and get some fresh air. Seat cushions are nice also. (Maybe I'm getting old--ya think?)
Between the race, check out the POWRi t-shirt tables and chat with Donna about the plans for the winter.
Someone called it the poor man's Chili Bowl. Not quite there yet but a great warmup for the CB.
In addition to the rooms in Carbondale there are a couple of decent motels in Benton which is 14 miles East of Du Quoin.
I second the advice to get there early. This show has gained some notoriety over the last couple of years and the Southern Illinois Center might just fill up this year.
I would also urge those of you attending to take the drive through the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds after the sun goes down for the Holiday Light Fair. They really light up and decorate the old fairgrounds. It doesn't cost much and it's really neat to see the fairgrounds all decked out for Christmas.
And as has been said earlier, the racin' is second to none. The battle Mezerall and Clauson waged in The Center in December of 2011 was epic and the Saturday night show during the fair over Labor day weekend of 2012 was equally exciting.
Silver Crown Championship Dirt Cars properly driven on a one mile dirt track are classic poetry in motion. Using that analogy, Jack Hewitt is one of the greatest poets of all time.