This is what it all boils down to. All the hype, preparation, planning, and testing come together on race day. It’s when the Drivers get to do what they love and put on a show for the fans. For the fans it is an evening of leaving their real-world worries behind and enjoying time with family and friends as they watch their local heroes compete.
Early in the day, the pit gates open for teams to set up and prepare their cars. This time is used for unloading, technical inspections, and any necessary adjustments or repairs.
Drivers register for the event and draw for their starting positions in the heat races. This process can vary by track and event but usually determines the initial line-up.
A mandatory meeting where officials review the rules, procedures, and any specific details or changes for the night’s racing.
Short practice sessions for drivers to get a feel for the track conditions and make final adjustments to their cars.
Drivers individually take timed laps to set the starting order for the heat races. Fastest laps generally earn better starting positions.
Short, competitive races (usually 8-12 laps) where drivers race to qualify for the main event. The number of heat races depends on the number of entries. Top finishers in each heat secure a spot in the feature race, with their finishing positions determining their starting positions.
Races for those who did not qualify through the heat races. These races (often 10-15 laps) give drivers another opportunity to make it into the main event. The top finishers from these races fill the remaining spots in the feature.
A break in the action for track maintenance, fan activities, or additional events like autograph sessions or special presentations
The main event of the night, typically 20-50 laps, depending on the track and the event. The feature race is where the top qualifiers compete for the overall win and prize money.
Post-race celebration for the winner, including interviews, trophy presentations, and photos.
Technical inspections of the top finishers to ensure compliance with the rules. Any violations can result in disqualification or penalties.
In Dirt Racing, flags are used by race officials to communicate with drivers and other track personnel. Each flag has a specific meaning and serves as a way to signal various situations during a race.
The green flag signals the start of the race or the restart after a caution period. When the green flag is waved, it indicates that the track is clear, and racing can resume.
The yellow flag is displayed when there is a hazard on the track or an incident has occurred, and caution is required. Drivers must slow down, maintain their positions, and refrain from passing until the track is cleared and the green flag is displayed again.
The red flag is used when there is a serious incident or unsafe conditions on the track, and the race needs to be stopped immediately. All drivers must come to a complete stop on the track until the situation is resolved and further instructions are given.
The "Move Over" flag is essential for ensuring fair and safe racing, as it helps prevent unnecessary congestion and potential accidents on the track. When a driver sees the blue flag with a yellow stripe, they should be aware that they are about to be lapped by faster competitors and should move to the side of the track or take an alternative line to allow the faster drivers to pass.
The black flag is shown to a specific driver, indicating that they are being penalized or disqualified for a rule violation or unsafe behavior. The driver must leave the track and report to the pit area as instructed.
The white flag signifies that there is one lap remaining in the race. It informs drivers that the next flag they will see is the checkered flag, indicating the end of the race.
The checkered flag is displayed at the finish line, indicating the end of the race. The first driver to cross the finish line when the checkered flag is shown is the winner of the race.
Your first visit to a dirt track can be intimidating if you don't know what to expect — or what to bring! Be sure to check the weather, and be prepared to maximize the excitement with this handy checklist.