[ISF]

We made our first journey to The Belleville Highbanks this past weekend and felt compelled to post about our experience.

First and foremost we had a great time! To no small degree that was made possible because of some folks to whom I want to publicly express our gratitude and thanks from a Central Illinois clod hopper and his wife.

Heading our list is Kansasdirtfan, who's experience, knowledge and gracious willingness to help us with trip planning and his genuine concern that we enjoy the whole experience was invaluable. Also, we sincerely thank his buddies Bob and Gary, the hostess with the mostest Janice, and Ed.

Without the guidance, hospitality and genuine fellowship (along with a couple of their beers) from the aforementioned folks our maiden visit to The High Banks and the North Central Kansas Free Fair would not have been anywhere near as memorable or enjoyable. THANK YOU again for inviting us into your group and for making us feel as welcome as though we'd been lifelong friends!

Good Lord is Belleville FAST!

Our prayers were answered and we were so happy to learn Friday morning that Caleb Armstrong was fine following that nasty flip in the feature Thursday night.

We dearly hope the Silver Crown cars are on the Nationals docket for next year. From a spectator perspective it appears that those big beautiful cars have the potential to produce some very special racing at The High Banks.

This years midget feature was, in our opinion, a great show. Especially the battle up front between Rico and Christopher at speeds we haven't seen from midgets since they last raced at The Springfield Mile.

The fact that the Fair is going on in conjunction with The Nationals adds charm and a festive feel to the whole experience. Hopefully the Fair and The Nationals are always synonymous with each other.

We are already thinking about the 2014 Belleville Midget Nationals!

[Kansasdirtfan]

Kenny, it was a pleasure to welcome you and Becky to our "family." Your wealth of racing experiences and your ability to share them with others makes for hours of enjoyable conversation. We all look forward to your next visit to the Highbanks.

I can only echo your sentiments regarding the racing at "The World's Fastest Half Mile." Aside from some fearful moments following Caleb's incident, the weekend was pure joy. And like you, I sincerely hope USAC, should they choose to be involved in 2014, will once again include the Silver Crown division. Hopefully more car owners will want to join in on the fun next year. In my mind, Belleville is the perfect track for the champ cars.

Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to USAC, the NCK fair board and all involved for putting past differences aside and once again bringing a great event to the heartland of America. We're certainly looking forward to an even bigger event next year.

[USAC Developmental]

Thanks to all the Owners, Drivers, Fans and Crew members who attended the 36th Annual Belleville Midget Nationals or watched online, what an exciting 3 days of open wheel racing!

Special thanks to the Board at Belleville for all their hard work in pulling the event together and the 63 team and sponsors for the extra give aways each night!

Last but not least thanks to the gentleman who donated the extra 3k that went to the winner on Saturday night!

It was great to see the "High Banks" back with a full field of cars, packed grand stands and full of energy. We look forward to doing it again next year!

[ASPHALT24]

Great thread. However, Belleville is far from the fastest half mile in the world.