OBERLIN, Kan. – It has been a bustling 24 hours for Lucas Oil POWRi United Rebel Sprint Series presented by Mel Hambelton Ford Racing president Rick Salem.

After thinking the upcoming Memorial Day weekend of racing would not happen, when a proposed event at Oberlin Speedway was shut down by county officials, a late-night phone call from Salina (Kan.) Speedway owner Tommie Hendrickson and Chris Sutton occurred.

They wanted to bring in sprint cars for a Memorial weekend special, both parties came to terms and the series will open the season at Salina on Saturday night, May 23.

Originally a $700 to-win event, contributions and support from Missouri’s Mike Sosebee, Steve Hilker of Hilker Trucking and Austin McLean Motorsports now has the event paying $1000 to win and $200 to start.

It will be the first time in the 14-year history that the URSS 305s will compete at the Salina, Kan., three-eighths mile oval. More than 20 drivers from four states have already stated intentions of competing.

Guidelines that both the track and series officials need to adhere to include:

– Adhere to the 15 people per group guideline and stay 6 feet away from other groups of 15 people.

– If you feel sick or have been around anyone that is sick, sit this one out.

– If you don’t feel safe coming out, by all means stay home.

– Officials recommend that those attending wear a mask, but it is not a requirement.

The CDC also recommends that those who are higher risk take extra precautions and consider staying at home.

Pit gates will open at 4 p.m. with racing slated for a 7 p.m. start time. A $30 entry fee is due at the time of sign in and all pit passes will be $25.

This event will be a URSS series and IMCA national point race.