“Dream Come True” for Second Generation Broadcaster

ROSSBURG, OH (April 17) – Already comfortable on the race track as an accomplished and respected driver, Dillon Welch will be transferring that excitement and adrenalin into a new role Saturday night at Eldora Speedway. The 20-year old Ball State University Telecommunications Major student recently accepted an internship with the United States Auto Club (USAC) and his first assignment is a coveted one.

Welch has been tabbed to join Eldora announcer Dustin Jarrett in covering the Don Branson/Jud Larson USAC National Sprint Car Classic Saturday night. “I’m very grateful and excited for this opportunity to come on board with USAC. Being able to announce racing has long been a personal goal, and to make my announcing debut at one of the world’s premier short track facilities, covering my favorite type of racing, at a young age, is a dream come true,” stated Welch, who will become a second-generation broadcaster with Saturday’s stint.

Dillon’s father, Vince Welch is a recognized ESPN IndyCar/NASCAR commentator. “My dad has played a big part in getting me interested in broadcasting. I have always wanted to be a driver, and have had some great years behind the wheel of a Midget and Quarter-Midget, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve seen the value of broadcasting to the racing industry and the entertainment it provides. I’m looking forward to hopefully catching up to my dad one day, but I know he’ll help me whenever he can along the way,” continued the excitable Carmel, IN native.

His on-track experience behind the wheel, knowledge of race car characteristics and comfort zone with fellow drivers will be assets as he settles into his new role of translating what is going on to the Eldora fans Saturday and those watching the event via Eldora’s live online streaming pay-for-view broadcast.

“Ultimately, it comes down to wanting to make a living in motorsports. I’d prefer to be driving, something that I have been doing since I was 7, but if I can use my broadcasting skills to be involved in the sport, that is just as great. My primary focus this year is the USAC internship, but if time permits and the opportunity is there, I’d never turn down a chance to jump back in the seat.”

Saturday’s tripleheader finds the UMP DIRTcar Modifieds and Eldora Stock Cars joining the Indianapolis, IN based USAC organization as it enters its 53rd consecutive year. With the heritage of USAC racing at Eldora nearly tripling Welch’s 20 years, comes the passion to excel. “You can always count on the racing at Eldora to be exciting and the Big E has always been one of my favorite tracks; Saturday can’t get here soon enough for me.”

Pay-per-view, event details and ticket purchasing information can be found on Eldora’s website www.EldoraSpeedway.com or can be obtained by calling the speedway office (937) 338-3815 during normal business hours. Additionally, race fans and race teams can get behind-the-scenes access by following @EldoraSpeedway on Twitter, hitting ‘Like’ at Facebook.com/EldoraSpeedway and view video highlights at YouTube.com/EldoraSpeedwayInc. Mobile device users can access the Eldora Speedway app for the iPhone, iPad and Android which is available for download via iTunes and Google Play.