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Mike Calinoff and Ed Cox Join Forces to Present the Southeast Limited Late Model Series
NASCAR notable, Mike Calinoff, who is the spotter for NASCAR champion and 2009 Daytona 500 winner Matt Kenseth, has partnered with Orion Motorsports owner Ed Cox to develop the Southeast Limited Late Model Series (SLLMS) - a brand new championship series encompassing a five-race schedule.
Calinoff, who is also the owner of Activ8 Communications and Activ8 Driver Development, is a 27-year NASCAR veteran and has an affinity for working with young, talented drivers.
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While the Southeast Limited Late Model Series is open to all competitors, they are looking to provide the necessary tools for young drivers to hone their skills in extra-distance races in an affordable environment.
Taking their series to the next level, Calinoff and Cox produced an impressive race schedule comprised of five distinguished tracks rich in history and known for attracting intense competition. The inaugural SLLMS race will be held at Florence Motor Speedway (SC) on July 3rd and 4th, followed by races at Ace Speedway (NC) on Sept. 24th and 25th, Hickory Motor Speedway (NC) on Oct.16th, North Wilkesboro Speedway (NC) on Oct.30th and 31st and the season's finale at the infamous Myrtle Beach Speedway (SC) from Nov. 18th through the 21st.
Not only is SLLMS providing an incomparable first-year race schedule, the series is also rewarding its drivers for their performance in an extremely large way. Just to start the race, each driver is guaranteed a minimum of $250, while the feature winner will walk away with $3,000. Staying in sync with their ultimate goal to provide short track drivers with a chance to take the next step in their racing careers, the overall SLLMS Champion crowned at Myrtle Beach will also be given the opportunity to have a test and evaluation in a K&N East Series car provided by Spraker Racing.
Spraker Racing is one of the premiere race teams currently competing in the K&N East Series and will provide a great outlet for the SLLMS Champion to gain even more experience.
As a driven businessman, entrepreneur and championship spotter, Calinoff has had plenty of experience in the motorsports industry, but he recognizes starting the SLLMS as one of his most exciting ventures thus far.
"I've always felt that Limited Late Models were a viable and affordable class for young drivers to compete and showcase their talents. Given the state of the economy, we wanted to provide a venue were we can race at really good tracks, while keeping in mind the short-track racer budget."
Calinoff continued, "It really made sense to align with Ed on this project. He's one of the premier car owners in the division with Orion Motorsports and understands the dynamics involved in putting on competitive events. I'm really excited to be partnered with him."
Ed Cox is also no stranger to short-track racing and is thrilled to be a part of the SLLMS inaugural season.
"This is something that I've thought about for some time. It's a very competitive and affordable division -- especially in the Southeast. With Mike's NASCAR stature and his work with development drivers, I thought that the time was right to take a concept and bring it to reality."
PaddockTalk Perspective
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