For the fifth consecutive year, the Prelude to the Dream at Eldora Speedway is a sellout. The only way left to see such racing icons as Tony Stewart, Ryan Newman, Kyle Busch, Jimmie Johnson, Carl Edwards, Robby Gordon and Kasey Kahne competing in dirt Late Models to raise money for injured and fallen heroes is via HBO Pay-Per-View. Jeff Gordon was set to take the green flag for in the event but he will not be racing on Wed due to his back pain, he wants to be ready for Pocono this weekend. So, racing in his car will be Marcos Ambrose. HBO Pay-Per-View’s racing telecast has a suggested retail price of $24.95 and is available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes.HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming in the pay-per-view industry. Ordering information and up-to-the minute racing information is available at hbo.com. “Despite the tough economic times, we knew how loyal the Eldora fans would be,” said Stewart, owner of Eldora Speedway. “We’ve got some of the best fans in the country, and once again, tickets went fast for this year’s race. We’ll put on a great show for the fans and they’ll help us raise money for injured and fallen heroes in the process. Even though the race is sold out, everyone can watch it at home thanks to our great friends and partners at HBO Pay-Per-View. This is our third year with them and it’s been a tremendous relationship, which gives the entire country a chance to see the Prelude to the Dream.”
After the first four events collectively raised more than $2 million in contributions to the Victory Junction Gang Camp, this year’s Prelude to the Dream benefits four entities that cater to severely injured military personnel and fallen soldiers and their families – Wounded Warrior Project, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Operation Homefront and Fisher House. Each has a mission that outlines assistance to the courageous men and women who serve their country and need additional support both during and after their time of service.UPDATE: The race was set to go Green Tonight (June 3, 2009) but rain forced the event to be posponed until Wednesday September 9, 2009. Those who have already purchased the Prelude to the Dream on HBO Pay-Per-View will be refunded. Those who purchased a ticket to the event can apply the value of their Prelude to the Dream ticket toward any remaining event on the 2009 Eldora Speedway schedule. No word if Jeff Gordon will be drive in the race when it is held in September.
