Huntsville, AL - Late model pilot Mark Vineyard has been named as the
2005 O'Reilly Southern All Star Racing Series Behind the Wheel / Cleveland Speedway Driving School Rookie of the Year. Vineyard, of Powell, TN, delivered twelve top tens, four top fives and a win during a twenty-six event tour which traveled to sixteen venues in seven different states.

In 2005 Vineyard, who owns multiple track championships at Atomic Motor Speedway and Smoky Mountain Speedway, ventured out of the confides of East Tennessee for the first time in his career. Vineyard got a boost of confidence early in the season after taking a flag to flag win at Swainsboro (GA) Raceway by holding off eventual OSAS Champion Chris Madden. Vineyard also made a chassis switch into Barry Wright Race Cars in the first half of the season which he attributes much of his consistency and success.

Another big part of the success of his first traveling campaign was all the support which he received. Vineyard's crew chief B.J. Hillman provided him with a well prepared car week in and week out. Along with Hillman; Buster Vineyard and Mark and Denise Cloud kept Vineyard in shape at the track. Vineyard also places much of his success with his family support. According to Vineyard his father Leon was a constant encouraging and important presence "My dad has always been a big part of my racing. He travels with us whenever he can get away. He has meant the world to my career. I wouldn't be where I am if it hadn't been for him."

Vineyard also credits his sponsors for their role in his triumphant season. Primary sponsorship was provided by Smithbilt General Contractors, 441 Market, One Stop Market, Carl Norman Sheet Metal and Roofing and Base Race Fuels.. Vineyard received product support from PPM Race Products, SHY Racing Suspension, Ohlins Shocks, Hypercoils, Weld Wheels, Stealth Carburetors, Simpson Race Products and Wells Racing Photography. Vineyard utilized Ford engines provided by Larry Wallace Racing Engines in his Barry Wright Taurus.

Vineyard will be honored along with 2005 OSAS Champion Chris Madden and the top ten in final OSAS points. There will also be several special awards presented including Car Owner of the Year, Sponsor of the Year, PPM Products Hard Charger and Matco Tools by Dunlap Crew Chief of the Year among others. The festivities will be held at Thunder World USA located in Maryville, TN. Dinner will begin at 7:00 PM with awards immediately to follow.

Perry "The Voiceman" Holman, famed southern racing announcer, will serve as the master of ceremonies. The ceremony is open to the general public. For more information or to reserve seats please contact the OSAS Office at (256) 539-4484 or e-mail: kelcarms@msn.com you may also visit www.thunderworldusa.com for directions and available activities.

The official host hotel for the 2005 OSAS Championship Banquet is American Classic Suites located at 805 Foothills Mall Drive Maryville, TN. American Classic is offering a special discounted rate for the OSAS visitors. Please ask for the Southern All Stars rate when making reservations.

For reservations call 800-780-9839 or e-mail Maryville@acshotels.com or visit www.americanclassic.com

O'REILLY SAS DIRT RACING SERIES SUPER LATE MODEL UPCOMING EVENTS
DEC 17 AWARDS BANQUET-THUNDERWORLD-MARYVILLE, TN

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