ANDERSON — One of Anderson Speedway’s many long-standing traditions is delivering Night of Thrills in eyedropper proportions.

Two per racing season. No more, no less.

This isn’t to say the public demand for additional nights isn’t there, because it is, says speedway president Rick Dawson. Nights of Thrills are annually among the facility’s most popular attractions.

According to Dawson, such scarcity is by design.

“The reason is because too much of a good thing can wear out its welcome,” he explains. “This way it stays special, but we are contemplating adding a third Night of Thrills for the 2009 schedule.”

Tonight’s version, presented by The Herald Bulletin, is the first Night of Thrills for the speedway’s 2008 season. The other, which will include a demolition derby, is scheduled to take place Oct. 11.

According to Dawson, a Night of Thrills tends to be popular largely because of their unconventionality, what with school bus Figure 8s, rollover competitions, trailer pulls and the like taking place at the quarter-mile oval.

Gates open at 4 p.m. today, with the thrills getting under way at 7. Admission is $10 for adults and $4 for kids ages 6-12. Children five and younger get in free.

Powder Puff racing gets things started at the speedway, followed by a Cork Screw Race, the second season appearance of Newco Metals Legends, the rollover contest, school buses trading paint and a trailer race.

All in all, a night of quality entertainment for those who like fierce competition, as well as a good laugh.

“It’s entertainment, but the rollover contest gets pretty intense,” said Dawson. “The kids especially just get into this. It’s a blast. I loved this stuff when I was growing up, and I love watching the adults and kids when we have a Night of Thrills.”

Like Dawson indicated, next year there might just be three.

Following tonight’s events, Anderson Speedway returns to traditional racing May 3 with SuperTrucks and Figure 8’s among the competitions. Street Stocks make their return May 10.

Tonight's schedule