Dirt track racing is a distinctive genre of motorsports, typically conducted on oval circuits surfaced with either clay or dirt. These tracks are often dual-purposed, serving as arenas for thoroughbred horse racing as well. The inception of dirt track racing dates back to pre-World War I era in the United States and gained notable popularity during the 1920s and 1930s, with both cars and motorcycles taking part.

There are two predominant types of race cars in this sport — open-wheel racers, which are commonly seen in the Northeast and West, and stock cars, which are more typical in the Midwest and South. Open-wheel race cars are bespoke racing machines built for speed, while stock cars, also referred to as fendered cars, can be either specially built for racing or regular street vehicles that have been extensively modified.

The nation boasts hundreds of local and regional racetracks, each offering a unique challenge and experience, and serving as testaments to the widespread appeal and enduring legacy of dirt track racing.

The Dirt Track

The surface of a dirt track can comprise a variety of soils, yet most seasoned dirt racers might prefer a well-moistened, meticulously prepared clay oval as the ultimate racing surface. The task of adequately readying a dirt track for a race is a deeply ingrained tradition, as well as an extensive and intricate process demanding several hours of labor.

Typical machinery employed in track preparation encompass graders, cultivators or rototillers, two forms of rollers, and a watering truck, although the exact process may vary across dirt tracks worldwide. Post-race, the track's roughened surface is initially graded and smoothened to restore the contours of the track's layout. Subsequently, any loose soil is further smoothed and compacted into any soft spots.

The recently flattened track surface is then aerated with a cultivator or rototiller. This procedure helps loosen the now-compacted top layer and facilitate better water penetration, ensuring a suitably moist track on race day. Depending on the climate, location, and soil composition, watering is carried out repeatedly as necessary. Employing offset boom nozzles on watering trucks helps avoid compressing the aerated soil.

On the morning of the race, a dirt track should be rolled and watered as needed, with a final light watering session just before wheel-packing. It's typical for outdoor dirt tracks to be aerated to a depth of 12 inches.

Type of Race Cars

Every racetrack or sponsoring organization maintains a comprehensive rule book that outlines the specifications for each class of race car, encompassing dimensions, engine size, and required and prohibited equipment. These criteria are often harmonized across multiple tracks to provide the broadest possible range of venues for each car type. This coordinated approach not only allows drivers to compete at a variety of racetracks but also enhances their winning prospects. Moreover, it empowers racing associations to design a sequence of race events that cultivate fan engagement.

Most tracks accommodate two types of racing in their line-ups: open wheel cars and stock cars. Both categories span from vehicles powered by robust V8 engines to those equipped with smaller yet highly potent four-cylinder engines. Some classes of the smaller open wheel race cars even cater to single-cylinder engines. Depending on the specific class, the cars may feature wings to enhance handling at high speeds.