SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- The countdown for the running of the 5th Annual O'Reilly Turkey Classic presented by Bad Boy Mowers has begun as this stellar event will kick-off the racing season in Southwest Missouri on Saturday, March 10, at the Springfield Raceway in Springfield, Mo.

Action will feature Late Models, USRA RHS Modifieds, B-Mods and Legends Cars as everyone will be bringing fresh equipment to this always exciting event.

The big talk throughout the circles is the payday that awaits the USRA RHS Modified feature runners. Drivers without a USRA license may purchase a temp license at the track for only $10.

No spoilers will be allowed on the Modifieds for this show, but the event will be sanctioned to give national points in the American Racer USRA Weekly Racing Series and $1,200 will go to the winner while making the feature pays $400 to start.

The chip rule and weight rules are in effect per the USRA rulebook, and drivers may run either the American Racer KK-704 tire or stamped Hoosier G-60.

Entry fee is $100 and drivers not advancing to the feature but who compete in the last chance races pocket $110.

In 2010, Springfield regular Jody Tillman topped over 70 other drivers to become the fourth different winner in this event as he held off a hard-charging Chad Lyle in securing his biggest win.

RACEceivers are required and it is the drivers responsibility to provide them as the track does not rent them.

The top eight in passing points will redraw for their starting spots in all divisions.

Pit passes will be $35 while adult grandstand admission is only $20 with kids ages 6-12 years old getting in for $5. Children under 6 get in for free.

The pit gates will open up at 11 a.m., hot laps are scheduled to begin at 2 p.m., draw closes at 3 and drivers arriving after that will not receive passing points in the heat races. The drivers meeting is slated for 3:30 and the first race starts at 4 p.m.

Weather date for the Turkey Classic is set for Saturday, March 24.

The Turkey Classic has become the signature event in the four-state area and the high-light event at the "Quick-Quarter." In 2010 over 180 race teams checked in to compete.

For more information visit the website at www.springfieldraceway.com or contact Jerry Hoffman at 417-673-7426.

Modified Payout: 1. $1200, 2. $750, 3. $600, 4. $550, 5. $450, 6. $440, 7. $430, 8. $420, 9. $415, 10. $410, 11. $410, 12-20. $400, Tow $110.