It might help to look closer at the numbers - last year Montpelier averaged 21.6 cars for the 8 race dates (26, 28, 20, 25, 12, 22, 15, 25). On average, 14.6 were full midgets (19 high/8 low), 4.5 were Focus/Ecotecs (8 high/2 low), and 2.5 were minis (6 high, 1 low). The Apr 26th race this year drew 14 cars, 11 full midgets, 1 Focus, and 2 minis. Full midgets and minis weren't too far off their average, but 4 more Focus/Ecotecs would have brought the total close to a full field. I understand the Focus are unlikely to contest for the win, but a USAC legal Focus finished 7th on the 26th and was in a tight battle with 5th and 6th place, proving they can be competitive at a much lower cost. In my opinion, the rebirth of the Midget class In Indiana starts with grassroots racers using stock block motors supporting the races at Montpelier and Gas City.

I'd be interested in hearing from Focus/Ecotec car owners and potential owners (There's a number of Focus cars for sale in the $7,500 - 8500 range, and a bunch of reasonably priced midget rollers you could drop a Focus/Eecotec into for less than a new mini) - what would it take to get your car out to Montpelier or Gas City this season? Would a $50 bonus to the top finishing Focus/Ecotec/Mini do it?

This is EXACTLY what we are doing here in Florida and hope to come up with 3-4 cars one weekend when there is at least a 2 day show....we SSMS will have a 2 day show in Lake City Florida Fri. Sat. Nov. Thanksgiving weekend