Madison International Speedway

Madison International Speedway: Wisconsin’s Fastest Half-Mile

Located in the Town of Rutland near Oregon, Wisconsin, Madison International Speedway (MIS) is a premier 1/2-mile asphalt oval track known for its high-speed races and competitive atmosphere. Billed as "The Track of Champions" and "Wisconsin's Fastest Half Mile," MIS offers an exciting racing experience with its 18-degree banked turns and diverse racing programs.

History and Evolution

Madison International Speedway has a rich history dating back to the 1950s. Over the decades, the track has undergone numerous transformations, adapting to the evolving needs of the racing community while maintaining its status as a top-tier racing venue.

Key Historical Milestones:

• 1950s: The track originally opened as Oregon Legion Speedway, a dirt quarter-mile track.
• 1963: Sam Bartus purchased the track and paved it, renaming it Capital Super Speedway in 1969 after building a high-banked half-mile oval.
• 1980: Fred Nielsen bought the track, and John and Sue McKarns operated it for two years.
• 1983: Tony and Bob Zidar acquired the track, adding grandstand seating and a scoreboard.
• 1987-1989: The track operated as a dirt track under the name Impact Speedway, hosting World of Outlaws Sprint Cars.
• 1992: Wayne Erickson, owner of Slinger Super Speedway, took over the track.
• 2003: Chicago businessman Terry Kunes purchased the racetrack, hiring Roy Kenseth as the promoter.
• 2015: Gregg McKarns, owner of the ARCA Midwest Tour, bought the track and reinstated weekly Late Model races under Big 8 Series rules. MIS became a NASCAR Whelen All-American Series track.

The Racing Experience

Madison International Speedway offers a dynamic and challenging racing environment with its well-maintained 1/2-mile asphalt oval. The track’s high banking and smooth surface provide excellent conditions for high-speed, competitive racing.

Track Features:

• 1/2-Mile Asphalt Oval: Known for its 18-degree banked turns, the track allows for high-speed action and thrilling races.
• Weekly Racing Program: MIS hosts regular races every Friday night, sanctioned under the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series.

Racing Divisions: Madison International Speedway features a variety of racing classes, 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.

• Late Models: Following the Big 8 Series rules, this class features powerful, high-speed cars.
• Super Late Models: Monthly events showcase the best of this premier racing class.
• IMCA Sport Mods: Known for their agility and speed, these cars provide an intense racing experience.
• IMCA Modifieds: Featuring robust and well-prepared cars, the Modifieds class delivers thrilling races with close competition.
• IMCA Stock Cars: This class includes street-legal style cars that have been modified for racing, providing a unique blend of speed and accessibility.
• Sportsman (Division II): A competitive class offering exciting races.
• Bandits (Division III): An entry-level class that provides a great starting point for new drivers.
• 6Shooter Division: Introduced in 2015, this division features six-cylinder American-made cars from 2002 or older, offering low-cost, entry-level racing without points or significant payouts.

Community Engagement and Facilities

Madison International Speedway is deeply embedded in the local community, offering a family-friendly environment and engaging events that bring people together. The speedway’s facilities are designed to enhance the spectator experience, ensuring comfort and convenience for all visitors.

Community Engagement:

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: MIS is committed to providing a welcoming environment for fans of all ages. Special events and promotions often cater to families, making it a popular destination for community outings.
• Support for Local Businesses: The speedway actively supports local businesses, encouraging fans to patronize them and contributing to the local economy.
• Volunteer Spirit: The speedway’s operations are supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who contribute their time and effort to ensure smooth and successful racing events.

Facilities and Amenities:

• Grandstands: The speedway features spacious grandstands that provide excellent views of the track, ensuring that every fan can enjoy the racing action.
• Concession Stands: Offering a variety of food and beverage options, the concession stands ensure that fans can enjoy refreshments while watching the races.
• Parking Facilities: Ample parking space is available, making it easy for spectators to attend events.
• Modern Lighting: The lighting system enhances visibility during night races, creating a vibrant and exciting atmosphere.

Special Events and Racing Schedule

Madison International Speedway hosts regular racing events on Friday nights throughout the summer, providing consistent entertainment for fans and a competitive platform for drivers. In addition to the weekly races, the speedway also hosts special events that draw larger crowds and top-tier racing talent.

Special Events:

• Annual Championships: Highlighting the best drivers of the season, these events crown champions in various divisions and attract significant attention from fans and media.
• Invitational Races: These special races bring in drivers from other tracks and regions, creating a more competitive and diverse racing field.

Conclusion

Madison International Speedway in Oregon, Wisconsin, stands out as a premier destination for asphalt oval racing, offering a rich history, thrilling Friday night races, and a strong community presence. With its well-maintained 1/2-mile asphalt 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 Madison International Speedway's official website or follow them on social media. Whether you are a seasoned racing fan or new to the sport, Madison International Speedway promises an unforgettable racing experience. See you at the track!