Even though Silver State Raceway owner Larry Burton asked Robert Kline to resign as director of competition on Saturday, he still insisted that Kline is needed by the track.
"Robert's probably the most valuable asset this track's ever had, and it's been around for many years," Burton said in an interview on Monday. "The track's a hard place to keep going and make a profit. He has helped me have two decent seasons and to keep it going. I've had it for 11 years now and barely kept it afloat."
Burton added that he wants Kline to take over as the track's special events man.
"He would be the one to coordinate these visiting series like USAC, the 100-lap races, Davey Hamilton's Supermodified Racing League and others. He's got the connections and he's the one who makes the show run smoothly.
"Robert is so good at organizing, it'd be best to have him doing the important stuff because he's the man who can get things done."
Kline said Saturday he is finished as competition director.
"I am done for the rest of the season," said Kline. "When racing is over, I will sit down with Larry and find out what he wants for next year and try to work out a deal with him. If it works out for him and it works out for me, then we'll go from there."
Assistant Director of Competition and Technical Inspector Tom Price has agreed to stand in for the remainder of the season, which includes two points race for the track championship and the final race of the season on Oct. 21, the Nevada Days 100 open competition.
Kline told most of the drivers Saturday before racing began of his decision. They were sorry to hear the news.
"Robert and Tom have done nothing but good things for this race track and I'm sorry to hear of Robert leaving," said Thomas Oddone, who repeated what many others in the pits had already voiced.
"He's fair, he runs a good show and if you disagree, you can openly talk to him about it. He's always available."
Kline thanked the drivers for their support and acknowledged there may be a few who are happy he resigned, but he won't miss that.
"It's been an awesome run," said Kline. "I know we were headed in the right direction with the track and the two racing series. We got good dollars and great sponsorship from area businesses. I want to thank them for their support of Tom and me."
Kline said he would meet with Burton and discuss the proposal after the season is over. If plans sound feasible for both parties, he would go from there. "But I want everything in writing," said Kline.
