When we left for the track this morning, rain was not our first concern.  The skies were grey, but the
mood was jovial.  The route to the track met with rain.  We didn't care.  The first order of business for the
day was a banquet for the previous Kings of the 24 previous Kings Royal events.  The day started with
the introductions of the founders of Eldora Speedway, Earl and Bernice Baltes, renowned writer Dave
Argabright, and the Eldora Speedway queens.
First up was Steve Kinser, still a strong competitor with the World of Outlaws series, Steve has won the
Kings Royal a record six times so far!  Not only did he win the first in 1984, but he won in 1988, 1991, 1997,
2003, and 2005.  Steve is best known for stealing the crowns after two of his victories, and mentioned
that he expected four more for the others he won to place in his trophy room.
Up next was the legendary Doug Wolfgang.  Wolfie has not been to Eldora Speedway in 15 years and was
overwhelmed by the welcome he received by the fans.  Doug has been retired from racing since a
serious crash resulted in major burns and a long recovery.  Doug was crowned in 1985 and 1990.
Don Kreitz, Jr. followed the Wolf.  Don is the only Pennsylvania Posse member to take a Kings Royal.  His
came in 1986.
Bobby Davis, Jr. took the stage next.  Completely out of racing these days, Bobby spends all of his time
running his family business in Tennessee.  His win came in 1989.
Local hero and fan favorite Jac Haudenschild graced the stage after Don.  Jac, better known as the Wild
Child, has been racing for years on the World of Outlaws tour, and still thrills the fan every time he takes
to the track.  Jac has worn the crown 3 times in 1987, 1994, and 1998.
Next up was Slammin' Sammy Swindell.  Although not currently running full tours, Sammy has been known
to strap into a car every now and then.  He spends most of his time helping his son, Kevin, develop his
career.  Sammy won in 1992 and 1999.
At this point, Larry Boos had the foresight to bring up the big three from "back in the day" for a photo
opportunity that the fans really loved.  Steve Kinser, Sammy Swindell, and Doug Wolfgang posed happily
for pictures.
1993 and 1995 winner Dave Blaney was unable to attend as he was racing in Chicago.  1996 winner
Johnny Hererra was also unable to attend.  This brought up 2000 winner Dale Blaney.  Dale turned to
racing after a couple of years in the NBA and amazes every fan when he puts his extremely tall frame into
a sprint car.
2001 winner Mark Kinser was also unable to attend.  The next King to grace the stage was 2002 and 2006
winner Joey Saldana.  Son of non-wing racer, Joe Saldana, Joey currently races for Kasey Kahne in the
Budweiser-sponsored car.  Joey also accepted the award for Johnny Hererra.