Speedway Riders Face First Qualifying Race

COSTA MESA —  Today is a big day for Speedway riders who hope to win world and national championships.

The reinstated U.S. National Championship Qualifying Series at the Orange County Fairgrounds has two-fold importance. It is the first of three races that determine who will compete in the American Speedway final June 14, also at the fairgrounds in Costa Mesa, for the right to advance to the World Championships in Europe.

The top eight riders from each of the three qualifying events are invited to compete in the American Speedway final. The other races are May 30 in Paso Robles and June 6 in Auburn.

Just as important, the points from the race also count toward establishing the field for the Oct. 4 U.S. National Championship, the final race of the season. That 18-rider field is determined by the first three races of the qualifying series and a July 26 race in Dixon.

The field features 13 riders from Southern California and 11 from Northern California.

Costa Mesa’s Bobby Schwartz, a two-time national champion (1986, ‘89), and San Clemente’s Brad Oxley (1987) are among the favorites in the event; both have won twice this season.

Gates open at 6:30 p.m.; racing begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $9 for adults, $5 for seniors (60 plus) and juniors (13-17), and $2 for kids 6-12. Parking is free.