Abc Raceway

ABC Raceway: Premier Dirt Track Racing in Ashland

Located in Ashland, Wisconsin, ABC Raceway is a renowned 1/3-mile clay oval track that hosts exciting Saturday night racing throughout the summer. With a rich history dating back to the mid-1950s, ABC Raceway has become a beloved destination for racing enthusiasts, offering thrilling side-by-side action and a variety of racing events.

History of ABC Raceway

ABC Raceway’s origins trace back to the mid-1950s when the now-defunct Chequamegon Racing Association held its first racing program on a baseball field near Ino, Wisconsin, about 20 miles west of Ashland. Racing soon moved to a hayfield near Moquah, just west of Ashland, where interest in the sport grew rapidly.

Key Historical Milestones:

• Mid-1950s: Organized short-track stock car racing begins in the Ashland area.
• Early 1960s: Racing interest increases, necessitating a permanent, safe, and secure facility. The Frank Brevak family’s track, located three miles south of Ashland, becomes the new site.
• 1965: The Ashland-Bayfield County Racing Association (ABC Raceway) is formed, reviving racing in the Chequamegon Bay area.
• 1966-1968: The association hosts races at the Ashland County Fairgrounds in Marengo, WI.
• 1968: The association purchases the former Chequamegon Racing Association property, renaming it ABC Raceway, and begins hosting weekly shows with three distinct divisions of race cars.

The Racing Experience

ABC Raceway offers a dynamic and challenging racing environment with its 1/3-mile clay oval track. The track’s slightly banked surface provides excellent traction, making for competitive and thrilling races every Saturday night.

Track Features:

• 1/3-Mile Clay Oval: The well-maintained clay surface allows for high-speed action and close-quarters racing.
• Saturday Night Racing: The speedway hosts regular racing events every Saturday night during the summer, providing consistent entertainment for fans and a competitive platform for drivers.

Racing Divisions: ABC Raceway features a variety of racing divisions, ensuring diverse and exciting races throughout the season. These divisions cater to different types of cars and skill levels, providing something for every racing fan.

• WISSOTA Modifieds: Known for their powerful engines and high-speed capabilities, the Modifieds class showcases some of the best dirt track racing action.
• WISSOTA Super Stocks: Featuring robust and well-prepared cars, the Super Stocks class delivers thrilling races with close competition.
• WISSOTA Midwest Mods: A highly competitive class that offers exciting races and a proving ground for emerging talent.
• Pure Stocks: An entry-level class that allows new drivers to experience the thrill of dirt track racing in a supportive environment.
• Six-Cylinder Division: Unique to ABC Raceway, this division provides fans with lots of action and excitement.

Special Events and Community Engagement

In addition to its regular Saturday night racing schedule, ABC Raceway hosts several special events that draw larger crowds and top-tier racing talent. These events often feature higher stakes and unique formats, adding to the excitement and appeal.

Special Events:

• Red Clay Classic: Established in 1976, the Red Clay Classic has become the Northland’s premier end-of-season stock car racing event. This two-day program regularly attracts over 200 competitors and more than 5,000 fans, awarding over $125,000 in prize money.
• Mid-Season Specials: The raceway often hosts other events featuring such race machines as late models and winged sprint cars during mid-season specials.

Community Engagement: ABC Raceway is deeply involved in the local community, providing entertainment and supporting various community initiatives:

• Volunteer Spirit: The track’s improvements, totaling nearly $200,000, have been built and installed by dozens of volunteers donating their time and toil.
• Family-Friendly Environment: ABC Raceway is committed to offering a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular destination for fans of all ages.

Facilities and Amenities

ABC Raceway offers a range of facilities and amenities to enhance the spectator experience. The speedway is designed to accommodate large crowds while ensuring comfort and convenience for all visitors.

Amenities:

• New Restroom Facilities: Improved facilities for fan comfort.
• New Concession Building: Offers a variety of food and beverage options.
• Reserved-Seating Decks: Provides excellent views of the track.
• Improved Lighting and PA System: Enhances the viewing and listening experience.
• On-Track Watering System: The only one of its kind in the Northland, ensuring optimal track conditions.

Conclusion

ABC Raceway in Ashland, Wisconsin, stands out as a premier destination for dirt track racing, offering a rich history, thrilling Saturday night races, and a strong community presence. With its well-maintained 1/3-mile clay oval and diverse racing divisions, the speedway provides an exciting and memorable experience for drivers and fans alike.

For more information about upcoming events, ticket sales, and track details, visit the ABC Raceway’s official website or follow them on social media. Whether you are a seasoned racing fan or new to the sport, ABC Raceway promises an unforgettable racing experience. See you at the track!