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High noon on Saturday July 12, 2008, I was able to attend a very historical event.  Prior to the running of the
Silver Anniversary Kings Royal at Eldora, ten of the past champions from the first 24 years of this historic race
gathered at the Eldora Ballroom.  The track brought them together to honor them but I think the fun for them was
in renewing old friendships.  It is hard to believe but the inaugural winner of what has become one of sprint cars
most coveted prizes was also ready to race in the 25th.  Steve Kinser, the undisputed King of the Outlaws has
won the Royal six times, Doug Wolfgang won twice, Jac Haudenschild three times, Sammy Swindell twice, and
Joey Saldana twice.  Also in attendance were single race winners Don Kreitz, Jr., Bobby Davis, Jr., Dale Blaney,
Jason Sides and defending King Donny Schatz.

Award winning writer, Dave Argabrite was in attendance to lead these quiet, unassuming men into showing a
side or two of them that we are not very often privy to seeing.  Dave did a great job of bringing out the best in
each of these special people.  Each driver graced the stage for a time.  Those who have retired from racing told
us about what they are doing now.  The veteran drivers reminisced of races past and told us how their car was
for tonight's race.  The younger drivers exhibited the enthusiasm and passion that we have come to admire.

Fans gathered to hear and see their heroes and were not disappointed.  At the conclusion of the ceremony, the
drivers gathered on stage and allowed those of us in awe with a camera to get a picture like we may never get
again.  All those champions in one place.  As if this was not enough, when the banquet broke up, these drivers
sat down at a long table near the door to greet fans and sign autographs.  

No amount of money could buy the experience that we fans had on this rainy afternoon.  It was very
AWSOME!  
(Left) Jac Haudenschild (seated at
left), Doug Wolfgang & Dave Argabrite
(standing), and Steve Kinser (seated
on table.
(Right) Don Kreitz, Jr., Steve Kinser,
Wolfgang, Dale Blaney, Donny Schatz,
and Sammy Swindell.
Tony Stewart Motorsports drivers Kraig
Kinser and Donny Schatz helmets to
be worn during the Kings Royal and to
be auctioned off with benefits going to
the World of Outlaws Benevolent fund.
The "Old Guys Club"

Steve Kinser, Sammy Swindell, Doug
Wolfgang, and Dave Argabrite.
King Dale the XVII (Blaney)
King Jason the XXI (Sides)