MACON, Ill. – The historic oval at Macon Speedway opened in 1946, just after the boys returned from World War II. Through the decades, Macon Speedway became known as one of the premier dirt tracks in the Midwest. On Thursday, the sport’s bright lights take aim on the high-banked fifth-mile oval when the St. Louis U-Pic-A-Part 100 brings the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series here for the first time ever.
It’s the biggest night in the track’s history. The nation’s top late model touring series takes over the track with high-dollar machines and the biggest names behind the wheel of these 800-horsepower machines. The national stars, regional warriors and local hot shoes race for the biggest purse in Macon Speedway history. The St. Louis U-Pic-A-Part 100 pays $12,000 to win, and each driver who starts the 100-lap feature is assured of taking home $1,000.
“We’re proud to bring the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series here for the St. Louis U-Pic-A-Part 100,’’ Macon Speedway promoter Bob Sargent said. “It’s the top late model series in the country. We have a historic track here, and it’s great to see the biggest names in the sport race in front of our loyal fans.’’
Series points leader Don “The Real Deal’’ O’Neal is expected to race, joining the Who’s Who in late model drivers. Local favorites such as Shannon Babb and Brian Shirley plan on defending their home turf and grabbing the bragging rights. Macon Speedway regulars will also show their stuff. If that’s not enough, UMP Billingsley Towing Modifieds will go for $1,000 to win, and the field features NASCAR stars and Macon Speedway co-owners Ken Schrader and Kenny Wallace.
With an early-arriving crowd expected, Macon Speedway gates open at 4 p.m. Racing starts at 7 p.m.
On Saturday, Macon Speedway hosts Bud Light Ladies Night presented by Y103, the first in a season-long promotion that brings women into the cockpit of race cars while representing their favorite bar. Women from Rocco’s will race with the top two finishers advancing to the championship race on Sept. 13. Woody’s (June 21), Starship Billiards (July 12) and Pop’s Place (Aug. 9) will be represented later this season. Racing is just part of the attraction on Bud Light Ladies Night. Women receive half-price admission to Macon Speedway. A lucky lady will get the chance to wave the green flag or get a picture in Victory Lane with the feature winner in late model or modified divisions. Bud Light merchandise giveaways will get everyone involved, and race fans will also keep an eye out for food and drink specials.
Saturday is also Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Night, so check out what’s cooked up in the concession stand. During intermission, a jalapeno eating contest in planned. Gates open at 5 p.m. and racing starts at 7 p.m. with Billingsley Towing modifieds, Big Ten Series street stocks, sportsman, both hornet classes and B-mods in action.
Macon Speedway is located nine miles south of Decatur on U.S. 51, then 0.6 miles west on Andrews Street, then south to 205 N. Wiles. Macon Speedway hosts racing every Saturday night, plus many weeknight specials. For more information, follow Macon Speedway at (www.maconracing.com), Facebook (www.facebook.com/maconracing) and Twitter (@maconspeedway). It’s easy to join the Macon Speedway Text service. Fans can text MSFANS to 74574 to receive fan information. Drivers text MSDRIVERS to 74574 to receive driver information. Message and data rates may apply.