Fifty four wingless sprinters will fight for the 18 available starting spots in Saturday night’s Avalon National at the Place for Pace.

The actual number of entries is insignificant compared with the 18 available spots in the 25 lap main event that carries points towards two premierships.

“Everyone tends to be swept up in entry numbers and this can often cloud reality,” said Raceway spokesman Jeff Drew today.

“Fifty four wingless is great which means 18 will start in the National after qualifying heats and 36 teams will go home disappointed they didn’t make the cut, but that’s nature of our sport today,” he reasoned.

Saturday night’s potential winners totals over 18 on everyone’s calculations.

Andy Hibbert, Daniel Storer, Luke Weel, Kane Newcombe, Daniel Beard and Sam Wren headline the fields which also include some lead footed ladies such as formula 500 national champion Jessica Moulden, Ebony Hobson, Bianca Klemm and Kellie Banks.

The V8 dirt modifieds return after their successful Australian title with Brett Clarke determined to keep his streak going.

He beat Australian titlist David Clark of Queensland in the pre-Xmas 25 lapper in December before placing third in the Australian title.

Street stocks and AMCAs also feature on Saturday night’s card that starts at 7.00 p.m.