RPW Exclusive: The $10K-To-Win Pro Stock Race At Albany-Saratoga Surely Dares To Be Different
News Director 
Column By: BRETT HORLACHER / RPW – MALTA, NY – Labor Day may mark the traditional end of summer, but things are staying hot at the famed Albany-Saratoga Speedway in Malta, NY.
With the Pro Stock Division’s UPSTATE CHEVY DEALERS $10,000 to win “Dare to Be Different” Autism Awareness Race set to fire off at Malta on September 8th, the $10,000 to win race will be accompanied by 358 Modifieds, All-Star Slingshots, Limited Sportsmen, Street Stocks and 4-Cylinders.
The recent unveiling of a beautiful trophy, designed and manufactured by Gary Vazquez with Cutting Edge Metal Designs and sponsored by Jay Fitzgerald at Classic Muscle Parts in Galway, NY both drivers and fans alike can see what hardware is at stake for this high-paying and all-around rewarding race.
It’s not all just for the drivers, though. Plans for the grassy area behind the grandstands are also coming together with booths having informational materials for The Autism Society Greater Hudson Region, NY and Bring On The Spectrum charities.
Also, a pre-race driver autograph session, activities for children and a Chinese Auction that will certainly be the place for event goers to drop some tickets and obtain some signatures of the racers. This is all before grabbing some of that delicious race track food and heading to their seats to watch the best battle it out for 53 laps.
With over 40 drivers committing to run the race, even the heat races will be action-packed. Don’t just pencil-in the date. Write it in permanent marker. Grab those safety glasses and earplugs and head toward Malta on September 8th.
For those who haven’t taken in a dirt race before, here are some quick tips.
Race cars are loud. Bring some hearing protection. Also, with any dirt racing, minor amounts of dust from the track can become airborne so safety glasses are a good idea for comfort.
There are padded chairs available for rent at the track entrance and are certainly worth it. The races will go into the late evening so dress for the weather and temperatures you see in the forecast. Oh, and with clothing, you may want to wear something that won’t be easily stained (ie blue jeans).
Most all of all, have fun! The drivers love to see and hear a happy crowd!
Autism Fact: Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may be very creative and find a passion and talent for music, theater, art, dance and singing quite easily.
Early behavior-based interventions have positive effects on some children with ASD and less note-worthy effects on other children. Early services need to be based on individual children’s needs and learning styles.
Services for adults with ASD must be carefully individualized.
