The April edition of the Hunter Index, a new poll that ranks the top drivers competing in NASCAR's Developmental Series based on recent performance, was released Thursday on NASCARHomeTracks.com with NASCAR K&N Pro Series West competitior Paulie Harraka topping the list of talented drivers.

Paulie Harraka, a name that will become familiar to hardcore race fans, was voted to lead this months Index by a panel of motorsports writers and representatives of NASCAR for his performance in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series event at All American Speedway in Roseville, California on March 27, 2010. The New Jersey native earned the Coors Light Pole Award and led 125 laps on his way to picking up his first victory of the season.

The Hunter Index was created during the off season and compares the top drivers competing in the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series, NASCAR K&N Pro Series, NASCAR Mexico Series, NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and the NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour.

Named for Jim Hunter, NASCAR’s vice president of corporate communications and well known for his interest and support of NASCAR's Developmental Series, the Hunter Index will be released on the first Thursday of each month following a Wednesday vote by the panel.

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