Well it's not uncommon for any type of racing to win from the front row, But USAC inverts the tops six and if the fastest qualifier doesn't pass at least two cars in each heat to make the top four. Then he can start no better than seventh.
Many heats have winners from fifth or sixth. Also just because a first row starter won, doesn't mean they weren't challenged. If you can find the highlights of USAC Midget week from Lawrenceburg Speedway. Holly SHelton was passed and regained the lead at least 25 times in 30 laps and Rico won from tenth.
Here's highlights of last years Terre Haute and this years Bloomington, Also the USAC opener for this year