Tonight was a great lesson in the minutia that separates the kind of driver that is capable of winning 20 or 30 races in a season-vs an excellent driver who will win 10. Even if the latter is one who is getting ready to make history and capture his record tying 4th USAC National title. The winner tonight is just that rare breed of driver that only comes down the pike every 20 years or so. Maybe even less often that that. One who's entire existence is predicated on winning every race he competes in. No points. Getting a podium finish is no consolation. It's either win or lose. No exeptions.

You saw Levi's frustration as the top 3 pulled to a stop, near the flag stand. And it had to have been frustrating. Driving from an 11th place start to pass the new track record holder (BC) to grab the lead, on a racing surface that was challenging to say the least. He drove an outstanding race and it looked to be over. That is, until he found himself on a late race restart with a large and very threatening cloud looming over him. And I'm not talking about the remnants of Tropical Storm Hermine. It was a storm that Levi is all too familiar with. And he put up a valiant fight. It was a classic battle. But it was not enough to stop the force of nature that was upon him.

And as great as Jon and Levi were, their show was almost stolen by a great effort turned in by a seemingly outgunned Casey Shuman, who was the first to the flag stand, as the 28th lap was completed and the top two were going at it tooth and nail. But just as quickly as he became the leader, that was all gone, as he slowed on the backstretch and pulled into the infield. It was such a shame, because those who look at the official USAC box score will never appreciate what a great run he had.

Also, you have to give a hand to those who run LPS, as they managed to run their regular program with a USAC show and have sprint car fans out and on the road by 10:30. Like last year at Vermilion County Speedway, these guys waste no time and keep their show moving along nicely. And we were treated to a main event that turned into a real barn burner, even though at first it didn't have that feel to it.

Jerry