Gerhart, a local stock car racer, is coming off one of the most trying seasons in his near-30-year career. In 2009, Gerhart ran only eight of the 21 events on the ARCA circuit.

 “It was all right, based on the economy,” said Gerhart recently of his performance. “I didn’t run as much as I would have liked. It’s probably looking like the same schedule this year.”

 Gerhart, 51, finished 30th in the series’ points standing, with just one lone top-ten finish to his credit.

 “I don’t know if I can be more competitive with what has come into this garage area,” said Gerhart. “The technology is for sale. Advancements are easy to get if you have the resources.

 “You’re kind of stuck if you’re not willing to go forward,” Gerhart continued. “We’re not in the position to go forward. We certainly go faster every place we’ve gone, but we’re just a little behind. We’re about four or five years behind in engine technology.”

 Gerhart, who was the 1988 ARCA rookie of the year, said he is planning on racing in the Lucas Oil Slick Mist 200 at Daytona International Speedway in Florida on Saturday, Feb. 6. The race will serve as ARCA’s 2010 season opener.

Gerhart is a five-time winner of that event, including three straight victories between 2005-07.

jkfalk2005@yahoo.com