CHARLOTTE, N.C. — After nearly 10 months, 78 races and thousands of miles traveled, the World of Outlaws concluded the season with its annual banquet Nov. 5 at the Hilton University Plaza.
More than $850,000 in cash and prizes were awarded from the 2007 World of Outlaws championship point fund, making it the largest point fund in short-track history. The top 20 drivers in points all received a check.
Johnny Gibson, the longtime voice of the World of Outlaws emceed the event, which began with Ben Geisler, the executive vice president of operations for the World Racing Group, thanking drivers, teams, car owners and promoters for their contributions during the season and continued support.
“It’s been a great year,” Geisler said. “We started the season off with 27 teams and as you look around the room, we still have 21 teams that stuck the year out. That is a great accomplishment.
“The sport is healthy right now and strong. We had a number of events with record attendance this season. That is a testament to everyone in this room.”
Donny Schatz, was the final driver to walk across the stage, as he claimed his second-consecutive World of Outlaws title. He received $200,000 for his title, along with the champion’s trophy and ring.
“I have to thank my parents for all they have done for me,” Schatz said. “I never expected to drive for anyone else. We have accomplished so much together and had so many great times. Also, I have to thank ParkerStore. Without you, and your support, we would not be here today.”
Kerry Madsen was named the 2007 World of Outlaws Kevin Gobrecht Rookie of the Year.
“I enjoyed every moment being out here this season, Madsen said. “To be honest we never really set our goal to be the rookie of the year, but it’s a cool deal to have. It was one of those deals where if you ran well it would take care of itself. Now that we won it, it’s pretty cool.”
The Crane Cams Engine Builder Challenge Winner Award went to Kistler Specialties. The Chassis Builder Challenge Award Winner went to Maxim Racing.
Jake’s Carts presented a new golf cart to Paul McMahan. Each of the 21 full-time World of Outlaws driver’s names were placed in a hat and one-by-one they were eliminated until only three remained. Those three came to the stage, with McMahan’s name being the last one remaining in the hat.
The KSE Racing Products Hard Charger Award went to Jac Haudenschild. The Crew Chief of the Year Award went to D.J. Lindsey, from the Elite Racing Team, which fields a car for Jason Meyers.
The 2007 World of Outlaws Promoter of the Year was Glenn Styres from Ohsweken Speedway in Ontario. It marked the first time in World of Outlaws history that a first-time promoter of a series event has been named promoter of the year.
Brian Carter, the chief financial officer of the World Racing Group, along with Carlton Reimers, the World of Outlaws Series Director, presented longtime promoter John Padjen with the Ted Johnson Award for outstanding contribution to the sport.
“I have received a lot of awards in my life, but this is the best,” Padjen said. “I met Ted Johnson for the first time in 1976. I truly miss him.”