Dirt at the Downs: Reviving Tradition for Hawkeye Downs Speedway's 100th Anniversary
Hawkeye Downs Speedway is bringing back dirt racing for the first time since 1988 in celebration of its 100th anniversary. Teaming up with Benton County Speedway, the quarter-mile track will host a six-week series of racing events known as "Dirt at the Downs," starting this Saturday with a "Demo Derby" at 5 p.m. To prepare the track, around 4,000 cubic yards of Iowa black farm dirt were laid on the pavement, creating a one-foot-thick layer on the oval track surrounded by a temporary concrete wall.
The partnership with Benton County Speedway has been a success, with special events like "IMCA Racing Night," "Open Wheel Night," "Dirt at the Downs Classic," and "Ken Schrader Night" scheduled throughout the series. The IMCA Racing Night on Sept. 27 will be a point race sanctioned by the International Motor Contest Association, attracting a large crowd and offering pay-per-view coverage on IMCA TV. Additionally, Hawkeye Downs will host a variety of events such as vintage drag races, car shows, mini tractor pulls, go-kart racing, and a 200-lap "Dirt Enduro" race to conclude the series on Oct. 26.
The return of dirt racing to Hawkeye Downs Speedway provides fans with a nostalgic experience, reminiscent of the track's early days when it was founded in 1925. The decision to bring dirt back to the track for its 100th anniversary aims to create memorable moments for racing enthusiasts and honor the history of the venue. Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness a blend of tradition and modern racing at Hawkeye Downs Speedway during the "Dirt at the Downs" series.