Our sport has welcomed a lot of great, positive news over the last year, from the construction of new tracks, the revitalization of existing facilities, the reopening of such jewels as Illinois’ Route 66 Raceway, a billion-dollar entity investing in NHRA drag racing, and much more. But in a down economy, there’s bound to be some less-than-ideal news — and it came in one big wave last week.
First, Kentucky’s I-64 Motorplex, operated by Tim Baldridge, announced that it would not be opening its gates in 2024. The facility, as noted in a July story here on DRAGZINE, is a split partnership between the property owner and Baldridge, the latter of whom owns much of the equipment to make the track operational but not the land.
As Baldridge shared last week, “It is with a sad heart as I inform you that I-64 Motorplex will not be reopening this season. As most of you know, the land was put up for sale by the owner last summer. The first potential buyer came to us and said everything would remain as is, but unfortunately, that sale fell through. The second buyer was unsure of what he was going to do with the property, but in mid-fall, he said to carry-on. He has since decided that he has other plans for the property and after much contemplation and discussion we have decided not to reopen.”
“We will always cherish the friends and memories made at I-64 Motorplex. We have loved watching our juniors grow and become confident racers. We have applauded your successes and sympathized at your losses, prayed at your accidents and grieved at the passing of our beloved racers and fans. We want to thank each and every one of you for racing with us over the years.
“We have loved the way that many of you have stepped up and helped when we were shorthanded, fed us on long weekends when all we’ve had was concession stand food, provided things when you saw a need, advertised and promoted us and helped watch out for our grandson. The race track had become an integral part of our everyday lives. The constant hustle and bustle, planning, buying, repairing, making schedules and getting ready for the race each week will definitely be missed. We always strove to provide the best racing experience possible: to give you an affordable, safe, family-oriented atmosphere. This is not exactly the way we wanted to end things, but sometimes circumstances are out of your control. Keep your ears open, maybe something will happen in the future.”
I-64 is set to host a “final call” cash days event January 20th before closing.
Then, the Battlefield Dragstrip in Collinsville, Mississippi announced that it, too, would not be reopening. The 1/8-mile facility played host to a wide-ranging number of small-tire heads-up and bracket racing events in 2023.
Said operator Michael Street: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Battlefield Dragstrip. Over the years, Battlefield Dragstrip has been more than just a venue for high-speed adrenaline and thrilling races; it has been a community hub, a place where friendships were forged, and a haven for those who shared a passion for the art of drag racing.
“This decision was not made lightly, and we want to express our deepest gratitude to each and every individual who has been a part of our journey. We extend our sincerest thanks to the talented racers who have graced our track, the dedicated staff who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and the loyal fans who have cheered on the races with unwavering enthusiasm. Your support has been the driving force behind Battlefield Dragstrip, and we are truly grateful for the memories we have shared together.
“While the track may be closing, the spirit of Battlefield Dragstrip will live on in the hearts of all those who have been a part of this incredible journey. We encourage you to continue supporting the drag racing community and fostering the camaraderie that has made this place special.”
Additionally, the Sturgis Dragway, in motorcycle-country South Dakota, faces an uncertain future after its leaseholders and owner parted ways.
“After much careful thought and consideration, countless nights of no sleep, crunching numbers trying to make this work, Black Hill Dragway LLC has decided not to renew the drag strip lease. We want to thank everyone who has supported us and became our friends and extended family these past years! This was inevitably one of the hardest decisions to make. We will miss all the people who made it possible.”