Dirt Arrives as Hawkeye Downs Prepares for Dirt at the Downs Fall Dirt Racing Series to Celebrate 100 Years
Hawkeye Downs Speedway has officially begun transforming its legendary quarter-mile asphalt track into dirt in preparation for Dirt at the Downs, a historic series of events honoring 100 years of racing in Eastern Iowa.
Trucks began hauling in tons of dirt this week to cover the racing surface, bringing the track back to its roots for the first time since the mid-1980s. From its founding in 1925, Hawkeye Downs was home to dirt track racing for more than 60 years before transitioning to asphalt. This fall, fans will have the rare opportunity to experience racing as it began a century ago.
Hawkeye Downs is partnering with Benton County Speedway to present an unforgettable lineup of events:
IMCA Racing Night – September 27
Open Wheel Night – October 4
“Dirt at the Downs Classic” two-day event – October 10–11
Ken Schrader Racing Night featuring NASCAR legend Ken Schrader – October 18
In addition to these major race nights, the track will also feature Honus Motorsports’ Demo Derby and Boneshaker Shutdown Vintage Drag Races and Car Show in September, the Prairie Pullers’ Mini Tractor Pull, go-kart racing, and a 200-lap dirt enduro in October.
“We’re not just talking about history anymore…we’re driving on it. By bringing back the dirt, we’re giving fans a true throwback to our early days of racing while creating new memories this fall.”
Hawkeye Downs continues to operate full-time as part of the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Racing Series during the summer while also hosting enduro events, car shows, and rentals throughout the year. A full calendar of special dirt events, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket details can be found at www.hawkeyedowns.org/dirtatthedowns. Follow along the “dirt journey” on Facebook.
