WM: Phoenix Copper World preview

COONS, RODRIGUEZ LEAD MIDGETS TO "COPPER WORLD" THURSDAY AT PHOENIX INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY

Jerry Coons Jr. and Johnny Rodriguez lead their respective USAC Midget series point standings into Thursday's "Copper World Classic" at Phoenix (Ariz.) International Raceway. Coons, of Tucson, Ariz., is seeking his second straight National championship, while Rodriguez, of Elk Grove, Calif., is also seeking a second Western title. Thursday's race offers points toward both series championships.

A 25-mile Midget feature is planned on the P.I.R. mile, part of Thursday's open-wheel activity which also includes a 100-mile K & N USAC Silver Crown race.

A stellar field of Midgets is expected for the penultimate race of the 2007 season, which concludes Nov. 22 at Irwindale, Calif. Dave Steele of Tampa, Fla. is the defending champion and will make his first USAC appearance in more than six months.

Steele holds the 1-lap PIR Midget qualifying record of 138.201 mph, set in 2004. Dan Drinan set the 25-mile standard of 128.822 in 1995.

-credit: usac