I’ve never been a supporter of back gate promotion, but I respect that promoters and track owners will do what they think is going to help them be profitable. If a track insists on running more than 3 or 4 classes, it is critical that they run an efficient program. I think there are ways to make the race format suitable to both fans and race teams while also being respectful to those who are concerned about the length of the event.

One suggestion I would make is to run heat races for the premier class or top 2 classes only. The rest of the classes that are often considered support classes should qualify and run features only, especially if those classes do not have full fields. Instead of running heat races that extend the show and wear out the patience of casual fans and those who only want to see the headliner, have them group qualify and run a slightly longer feature after the headliner class or classes. This still gives them the laps they need without the extra time for separate heat races. On most race nights, support classes might get 3 laps of hotlaps, 6-8 lap heats, and a 12-15 lap feature.

Using the Circle City race Grocery Guy mentioned as an example, a slight adjustment to the race lineup like this could save some time.

Midwest Thunder 410 - Hotlaps, 4 lap Group Qualifying
UMP Modifieds - 4 lap Group Qualifying
Grub Getters - 4 lap Group Qualifying
Crown Vic's - 4 lap Group Qualifying
Midwest Thunder 410 - 8 lap Heat Races
UMP Pure Stocks - 4 lap Group Qualifying
UMP Modifieds - 8 lap Heat Races
UMP Hornets - 4 lap Group Qualifying
Last Chance races for any classes that are necessary.
Midwest Thunder 410 - 25-30 lap Feature
UMP Modifieds - 20 lap Feature
Grub Getters - 18 lap Feature
Crown Vic's - 18 lap Feature
UMP Pure Stocks - 20 lap Feature
UMP Hornets - 20 lap Feature