The top drivers from around the world are in North Central Florida this week.

A lot hard work and preparation must be done before the winner can celebrate.

Earlier today about 500 Sportsman Team Drivers qualified for different engine catergories.

Today is an easy day for these drivers, but it's also an important one. General Manager of Gainesville Raceway says, "This is when they'll find out how they're tune ups work, chassy set up works, and if they're set up to run on this track." Robertson says all the concession stands and merchandise stores are ready to go.

He also says they'll have hundreds of employees making sure things cruise smoothly at this year's event... including about two hundred seventy-five people working in the parking lot alone. More than 150-thousand fans showed up last year, and advance ticket sales this year are poised to pass that record turnout.

Now gates open tomorrow at seven in the morning. Robertson says pro drivers will start qualifying tomorrow. They're expecting more than 150-thousand drag racing fans to show up this weekend.

Tonight the action moves indoors, when 11 new members will be inducted to the drag racing hall of fame.

By Gavin Johnson, WCJB TV 20 News