On Saturday, local racer Lawrence Dixon will take to the track at the Charlotte’s zMAX Dragway to participate in the extremely popular television series PINKS ALL OUT competitors race.

The show will feature 4-wide racing down the newly acquired quarter-mile, as competitors race their way to the top of the charts for a chance on National television spotlight and a shot at $18,000 — $10,000 in cash and an $8,000 dream tool set.

“It is very exciting,” Dixon said. “I can’t wait to get out there on the track.”

Dixon will be riding in a 1979 Camaro, that is fitted with a .388 Chevy smallblock engine.

“I have been racing since 1994,” he said. “And I have won some awards, but this race, is by far, the biggest thing that I have ever participated in.”

The very popular event, that will be featured on the Speed Channel, is a difficult one to get into. Amazingly, Dixon, was one of 375 who was given a slot after registering late last year. Another 75 racers were selected from a new lottery system for those who didn’t register in time. The Lowe’s Motor Speedway site crashed in late January because so many attempted to add their name to the drawing.

“It is a big deal,” said Dixon, who is detective with the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office. “I am just very excited to be participating in it. I have been to each one that has come to Charlotte and to actually be driving in this one, is pretty incredible.”

Dixon said that he is not nervous about racing in front of a nationally televised audience. “Well, it might be a little different when I get on that track for the first time,” he said half-jokingly. “I think I will be a little nervous when and if I get to race for the $10,000.”

Dixon said that he owes his blessings to God and his family, as well as his friends who have been there for him throughout his career.

“I just want to thank Jack Ray Jones, Julian Carr, Joe Dixon, Jr., Craig Giddens, Fred Aldridge, Wayne Goss, Elworth Carroll, Brian Wright, Mickey Odum and Ashley Grimes,” he said. “Without them, I wouldn’t be able to do any of it.”

For more information on the race and broadcast times, click on to www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.

To reach Doug Clark call 910-592-8137 ext. 123 or send e-mail to sisports@myclintonnc.com.