In 2002, Steve Rubeck didn't find victory lane in either one of the Twin 150 National Short Track Championship feature events.  But his combined finishes were good enough to earn the overall title and the moniker of National Short Track Champion.

"I didn't know if I was or not.  There was never one announced after the races, but it's been everywhere this year.  It's pretty cool to come to an event like the National Short Track Championships and be the guy everyone's looking to beat.  Some pretty famous and awesome drivers have won this event.  It's pretty cool my name's on the same list as theirs."

In 2003, Rubeck has taken a different approach to his racing career.  "After a crash opening day at Madison Internaional Speedway, I broke my wrist.  Then I lost my job and decided to concentrate on racing and nothing else.  I was going to learn everything I could and see how good I was."  And the results speak for themselves.  Every event he has entered in the last three months, he's finished in the top ten.  And he's looking to put his experience to work for another National Short Track title.

"I started at Rockford in the American Short Tracker division.  I won the Spring Opener here last year.  That was my first race in a Super Late Model.  I won the NSTC title in 1993 in that first American Short Tracker.  So I've been to victory lane in this event before.  I just want to do it in the Sunoco Super Series EWT 250 this year."

Rubeck won't have to do it alone.  He has the support of many, but the help of few.  "I can't my car owner Kevin enough.  He's backed me all the way and I could not be where I'm at right now if it wasn't for him.  I don't have a lot of help.  It's basically a three person operation; Kevin (car owner), Chad (crew member), and myself.  My family helps out a lot too."

When asked what his secrets may be for victory this year, Rubeck was didn't give any speed secrets, but was still confident.  "Keep it in one piece and stay outta trouble.  I feel like the car is better this year than last year so I think the key for me is going to be patient and stay outta trouble."

With the number of laps Rubeck has logged on the quarter-mile high banked facility, he is one of favorites to win it all on Sunday afternoon.  And you can bet that he'll do whatever it takes to put and keep his car up front. 

"Win or wreck.  Whatever happens, it'll be spectacular."

Rubeck will have to battle some other Rockford Speedway veterans en route to the National Short Track Crown.  Seven time track champion, John Knaus is also entered for the EWT 250 along with Jerry Gille, Brad Wagner, Brian Johnson, Jr., and Mike Lloyd.  Add some of the top touring stars in the Midwest including Brian Hoppe, Ron Breese, Jr., and Eddie Hoffman.  Mix in the Sunoco Super Series regulars including points leader Bobby Parsley, Jeff Lane, and 1981 NSTC Champ Junior Hanley, and you're going to see one of the best National Short Track Championships in recent years.

Tickets are available online at www.rockfordspeedway.com and by calling the Rockford Speedway Box Office at 815-633-1500.  Discount tickets are available in a two and three day package.  Kids tickets are half price all weekend.  Don't miss out on Rockford's largest sporting event of the year.