With the release of the 2023 schedule last week, many race teams and fans noticed something new. Rather than seeing the Rookie Modified division on schedule, the new 316 A-Mods have taken their place.
Named for the area code where 81 Speedway resides, the 316 A-Mods are a hybrid division combining what both the Rookie Modified and old AAA Modified division were intended for.
81 Speedway and the Wichita area have long enjoyed a very rich and strong contingent of Modified competitors across all skill levels. The intent of the 316 A-Mods is to continue supporting that tradition, while continuing to provide a proving ground for future top tier modified talent for years to come. Here’s everything you need to know about the new 316 A-Mod division.
Eligibility: This class is intended for entry to mid-level A-Mod drivers.
• Current Top 10 in USRA Modified 81 Speedway point standings are ineligible to compete w/ the 316 A-Mods.
• USRA point standings can change on a week-to-week basis. As such, so can eligibility for the 316 A-Mods.
• Current USRA point standings will be used to determine eligibility. If necessary, to begin a season, week one eligibility will be based off previous year point standings.
• 316 A-Mod drivers are encouraged to compete with the USRA Modifieds whenever they would like to do so. Competing with the USRA Modifieds will not by itself be grounds for ineligibility with the 316 A-Mod division.
Rules: A complete rule book can be found here: https://www.81speedway.com/downloads/get.aspx?i=780313
Payout:
1st: $350
2nd: $300
3rd: $250
4th: $200
5th: $125
6th: $100
7th: $75
8th: $65
9th +: $60
B (Non-Qual): $30
Remarks about the 316 A-Mods:
After our first three seasons at 81 Speedway, we felt a change was needed for the Rookie Modifieds. Our Rookie Modified teams have supported us and the Speedway tremendously, but their room for growth was limited. Couple that with the seemingly huge gap in competition level between the Rookie Mods to the USRA class, and it’s a daunting task to expect anyone to make that leap right away.
We believe the new 316 A-Mod division solves that issue. By widening eligibility for the division, the overall talent level increases and narrows the gap between the 316 A-Mods and the USRA Modifieds. This also gives every driver in the division a place to learn, compete for race wins and provides much more room for overall growth.
Another door opens for a different crop of drivers as well, guys we've missed on being able to accommodate the last three years. Talented local drivers who are unable or simply don’t want to go toe to toe financially with top tier USRA teams, but still have a desire to compete in a modified, will find this option suitable for them. That's a gap we are glad we can fill.
Last, but certainly not least, we heavily encourage 316 A-Mod drivers to join our USRA Modified division at any time. With a few exceptions, we have built the schedule so the 316 and USRA Modifieds largely do not race on the same nights. Allowing 316 drivers to compete with the USRA Modifieds will only help their long-term growth.
We’re excited about the 316 A-Mod division at 81 Speedway and believe this is a step in the right direction for overall health of Modified racing in the Wichita area. As always, if anyone has any questions or concerns, the are welcome to call the Speedway or contact John Allen directly at any time. We can’t wait to see you all in 2023!
For a complete 2023 season schedule or information about 81 Speedway, please visit www.81speedway.com