Kinney adds that rules concerning tires and engine specifications are two of the major torments when adopting a set of rules.
Then, he says, there's the delicate political side of dealing with drivers, car owners, and track owners. He calls that the most challenging areas of the entire process, and adds that it's understandable.
"Both parties have a big financial interest in how things are set up and operated," Kinney says. "As in any other type of business when money is involved, there is a degree of stress that will always be a part of the process and there is no way around this. However, if you understand this, then you have a great deal of the battle overcome and can be successful in setting up a traveling series.
Has the economy presented a problem?
"As for the difficult economic state that we are all experiencing and the problems that it has presented in starting a series, I have been very blessed with great national sponsors such as Homes of Merit, a division of Champion Homes, a nationwide manufactured home builder and American Pace, who is one of the largest trailer builders in the trailer industry.
"The tire companies Hoosier and American Racer have also made contributions to the points funds this year. I have also had a lot of help from local businesses such as Zeigler Racing Engines, Bruce's Signs, Russell Brown Race Cars, RaceCar Engineering, Central Mobile Homes, Central Sheds and Trailers, and Real Racin U.S.A.
"However, in saying all of this, due to the tremendous struggles that are going on in the housing industry, real estate industry, and just about every other business, we are also feeling the ill effects of a bad economy."
What is the most rewarding part of being a race series owner?
"It has to be the positive energy that you feel in the stands when at an event. I thrive on the idea of putting something big together that is enjoyed by both the fans and drivers alike and this has been the most rewarding part of being a race series owner.
"I have felt the electricity surrounding the series since the inaugural race at the Ocala Speedway.
How many races is the series conducting and in how many states? How many employees does the series have and what are their specific duties?
"Currently there are 15 races in our schedule for the 2008 racing season that will be run in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida.
"As for our staff we currently have 12 persons, and without this group there would be no series. They are honest, loyal, dedicated, and truly some of the nicest people that I have ever been affiliated with.
"Their sacrifices have been great and I truly appreciate each and every one of them. Their duties range from flagging, lining up the cars, registration, communications, building and updating the Web site, teching the cars, a track photographer, videographer, announcer and the putting up and taking down of sponsors banners."
Any plans for expansion?
"We plan on sticking with a 15 weekend format, but would like to make several of the weekends two racetrack events. This will all depend on the availability of quality racetracks that share our beliefs and are willing to allow us to sanction a race."
What does he see as the future of dirt track racing in the South and nationally?
"I see the future of dirt track racing and the potential growth there as being huge both in the South and nationally. My opinion is that dirt track racing as a whole is the most economic way to enter racing and the racing programs are incredibly exciting. The proof, just in Florida, is obvious. Previous and current asphalt stars such as David Pullen Jr., Wayne Anderson, Richard Pratt, Mike Bresnahan, and Jeff Choquette all have recently purchased Dirt Late Models.
"I fully expect that this trend will continue as the costs associated with asphalt racing continue to soar. As for my part I plan on making the United Late Model Challenge series one of the most viable Dirt Late Model series in the country."
-Norm Froscher