Figure 8 Legend Simmons Returns on Saturday Night

When the Outlaw Figure 8's return to Anderson Speedway Saturday night it will be a homecoming of sorts for Billy Simmons. The Brighton, Mich., competitor will be making his first trip to Anderson Speedway since he last competed in 2000.

To Outlaw Figure 8 fans the name Billy Simmons is a name forever linked with his success in the old Red, White, and Blue figure 8 series that ran at the speedway from 1980-88. Simmons claimed the series on three occasions in '83, '85,& '87.

Simmons will be returning as a Grand Marshal along with fellow drivers Duane Lee, Joe McKinney, and Bruce Tunny. Simmons recently reflected on his first visit to Anderson Speedway on May 30, 1981. "The banking caught me first. The track reminded me of a track in Jackson, Mich. where I got my first win. When we lined up for the parade lap I could see the fans packed in the stands and I believe it was almost standing room only at least it looked like it to me," explained Simmons.

For seven years Simmons continued to come to Anderson regularly three times per year for the Open Competition Figure 8 events. Along the way he built a fan base and respect from some of the best Figure 8 drivers at the time."Gene Huston, Kenny St. John, Dick Hinshaw, Joe Beaver, Darwin Blankenship, Joe McKinney, Herb Rose, Bob Fields, and Gene Cook were my toughest rivals there." Simmons also is quick to point out how special the fans of Anderson Speedway were. "I remember the fans from Anderson as being the best to race in front of. The fans treated me great when I came down to race."

When Simmons makes his return to Anderson Saturday things will be slightly different. No longer will he be behind the wheel of his familiar No. 771 making quick and daring moves through the intersection of the Figure 8 as he did so many times before. But he looks forward to catching up with some old friends and reminiscing about the fun times he had here and even the bad times like his two crossover crashes in 1984 and 85.

Even know he lives nearly five hours away Simmons considers Anderson Speedway his home track which will make the trip even more special. "I want to thank the fans for their support when I came down to race. The drivers I raced against, and other race crews that helped me when I needed parts or help fixing the car to make the race. This is what made Anderson the best track I ever raced at," Simmons proudly states.

The Woods Landscaping Outlaw Figure 8's will be showcased in a 50-lap event in their second appearance of the 2008 racing season. Other events will include Pepsi School Bus Figure 8's, Culvers Trailer Race, Cork Screw Race, Roll Over Contest, Quick Auto Front Wheel Drive Oval and Demolition Derby.

As part of the return for these special Grand Marshals a special autograph session is also planned at 6:45 p.m.

Prior to the racing program beginning, Anderson Speedway will have School Bus Rides for the Kids taking place at 6:45 p.m.

On Saturday night, spectator gates open at 5 p.m. with racing beginning at 8. Admission is $12 for adults and $4 for kids ages 6-12. Children five and under get in free.

For additional information on Anderson Speedway, visit www.andersonspeedway.com or contact Anderson Speedway at  (765) 642-0206.