LOVES PARK, Ill. (Friday, January 22nd, 2010) -- The 2009 Big 8 Series racing season will officially come to a close tomorrow night, as the Forest Hills Lodge will play host to the 62nd annual Champions' Banquet. 2009 BRP Big 8 Series Champion Ross Kenseth will be on hand, as well as a strong contingent of Big 8 Series drivers and awards honorees. Also in attendance will be drivers and champions from the Rockford Speedway's past season.

Taking one last look back at a special 2009 season before transitioning into 2010, the annual Champions’ Banquet will get underway at 5pm with a 60 minute Social Hour presented by Budweiser and Pepsi Cola. While drivers and crew members alike mingle, catching up on their offseasons and 2010 racing plans, official Rockford Speedway videographer Tabitha Bennett will be readying her special celebratory year-end presentation.

An array of awards will be handed out during the evening, ranging from division and champion’s trophies to special achievement honorees. The awards ceremony will begin at 6pm sharp and come to a conclusion around 9pm, with entertainment and dancing to follow. Dinner, featuring prime rib, will be served at 6:30pm.

A suit or sport jacket is the proper attire for men, with a tie required. Tickets are required for admission to the event.

The 2010 BRP Big 8 Series presented by Gandrud Chevrolet season will kick off on Sunday, April 18th, when racing in the Midwest makes its return as Rockford Speedway plays host to the 33rd annual Spring Classic. The Big 8 Series returns to the high banks with both a new tire, the Hoosier 800, and a new and unique progressive racing format, culminating in a 58-lap main event. The venerable Mid-American Stock Car Series will serve as the undercard, with a 50-lap feature contest of their own.

A complete 2010 Big 8 Series racing schedule will be released shortly, with additional details to follow.

For more information on the 2010 BRP Big 8 Series presented by Gandrud Chevrolet, contact the Rockford Speedway Box Office at (815) 633-1500, or visit the series website at www.big8series.com.