By Jonathon Masters

A prestigious event began on the banks of the river near Portsmouth, Ohio, on Thursday night.

I'm of course talking about the annual Dirt Racing T-Shirt Vendor Fishing Challenge. Every year during the Dirt Track World Championship, the true road warriors of racing close up their trailers and travel down to the river bank to enjoy some late night angling. The underground event gives a much-needed relaxation break to the unsung heroes of short track racing.

It's true, the guys and gals providing everyone with apparel from for their favorite events and drivers are true racing legends. They have a greater travel schedule than most full-time race teams and work long hours at every track they visit. They are the friendly faces that are always there for you with new shirts, hats, can holders, and the ever-important safety googles on dusty nights.

Armed with their trailers full of shirts, these hardworking individuals start their season in late January and work events across the country until mid-December and occasionally pick up events during that month-long "off season." Imagine working straight through every single big event week during Speedweeks, Summer Nationals, The Dream, World 100, and any other marquee event that pops into your head. That is the reality for the people working the national T-shirt vendor scene. Other than the racers and series officials, they are the only people that will be at every Summer Nationals event straight through. Those of us who sarcastically use the phrase "living the dream" know that these guys are on top of the list of those are doing so.

As of Friday morning it appears Billy Smith of Speedway, IN, is leading the pack with two successful catches for the night. So enjoy your fishing, boys! We will see you on vendor row after the gates open.