Dirt Track Racing Returns to Hawkeye Downs Raceway

Hawkeye Downs raceway in Cedar Rapids is now a dirt track...at least for a few weeks. In a continued celebration of its 100th anniversary, Hawkeye Downs has become a dirt track for the first time since 1988.

Why Did Hawkeye Downs Go Back to Dirt?

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that Hawkeye Downs is presenting a six-week racing series called 'Dirt at the Downs'. When the idea was first tossed around, track officials knew they needed to work with someone who knew what a dirt track should look like. Enter the Benton County Speedway.

Where Did All the Dirt Come From?

According to the Gazette, around 4,000 cubic yards of dirt were laid on top of the pavement at Hawkeye Downs. The dirt is one foot thick along the quarter-mile track, and a temporary concrete barrier was also constructed. Officials with the Benton County Speedway told the Gazette it took around 350 dump truck loads to get all the dirt to Hawkeye Downs!

What Dirt Track Events are Coming to Hawkeye Downs?

The six-week 'Dirt at the Downs' kicks off Saturday night with a demolition derby. The Gazette reports that other events will include;

• September 27th - IMCA Racing Night
• October 4th - Open Wheel Night
• October 10,11 - Dirt at the Downs Classic
• October 18 - Ken Schrader Night

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How Long Was Hawkeye Downs a Dirt Track?

From its founding in 1925 all the way to 1988, Hawkeye Downs was home to dirt track racing, before transitioning to asphalt, according to the Gazette.