CLEAR LAKE, Iowa -- Thanks to Rookies, there will be even more for O’Reilly USMTS rookies in 2006.

Rookies Rockin’ Sports Bar is returning in 2006 as the title sponsor of the Rookie-of-the-Year award for the O’Reilly Auto Parts United States Modified Touring Series.

Located in downtown Clear Lake, Iowa, Rookies Rockin’ Sports Bar is owned and operated by O’Reilly USMTS competitors Al and Mike Hejna. Between the two, the pair have over 36 years of racing experience with more than 128 modified feature wins and nine track championships.

As veterans of the premier modified touring series in America, however, the stout combination will not be eligible to win their own award.

In 2005, Brad McEwan edged out Ryan Ruter and Zack VanderBeek for the rookie crown.

The 2006 Rookies Rockin’ Sports Bar Rookie-of-the-Year will earn a $2,500 payday.

In addition to their support of the O’Reilly USMTS rookie program, Rookies Rockin’ Sports Bar will also be the title sponsor of the O’Reilly USMTS event on Monday, May 29, at the Hancock County Speedway in Britt, Iowa.

"Whether it's fans, promoters or fellow drivers, everybody loves the Hejnas," said USMTS president Todd Staley. "Al and Mike are outstanding icons in our sport and, like all great athletes, they give back to their sport. We are thrilled to have Rookies on board again in 2006."

Drivers must meet certain eligibility requirements to qualify for “rookie” status with the O’Reilly USMTS. A rookie shall be any individual driver that has not finished in the top 10 in national points in any USMS/USMTS season AND has not competed in ten (10) or more USMS/USMTS events in any one season.

To learn more about America's Premier Dirt Modified Series, call the O’Reilly USMTS headquarters at (515) 832-7944 or visit www.USMTS.com on the World Wide Web.