Steve Beitler, operator of Skagit Speedway in Burlington, was recently honored by the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame as the "Promoter of the Year" for 2009.

"It is a big honor because there are a lot of great, great promoters out there that are looked at every year," Beitler said. "You work hard, you do the best job you can and you always wonder if people will recognize what you do. When you get an award like this, it shows that you are heading in the right direction and it shows that you have gained the respect of your fellow competitors and promoters. That is very special to me and I am very humbled and honored to have it."

Beitler also received Regional Auto Racing Promoter of the Year honors at the 37th Annual RPM Promoters Workshop, along with the 20th Annual National Speed Sport News Award for Outstanding Annual Short Track Event for the Jim Raper Memorial Dirt Cup.

Beitler is now focusing on the speedway's 2010 season opener. For more information on Skagit Speedway, visit www.skagitspeedway.com.