Enid Speedway, Enid, Oklahoma. (Dirt Track) [USA]

Enid Speedway, located in Enid, Oklahoma, first opened its gates in August 1948 as Thunderbird Speedway. The dirt track, measuring 0.375 miles (0.603 km), is under the ownership of the Fairgrounds Trust Authority.

The speedway has a rich history and remains a vibrant part of the racing community. Many drivers, marshals, mechanics, and fans have cherished memories of the track, which continues to be a popular venue for racing today.

The Golden Era: 1960s to 1980s

During its ‘Golden Era’ from the 1960s to the 1980s, Enid Speedway hosted races from prominent series such as the USAC National Midget Car Series, NCRA Super Modified Series, NCRA Late Model Series, and Street Stocks. The circuit earned a reputation as an ‘action’ track, notorious for its tendency to produce many rolls and wrecks throughout its history.

Tragic Incident in 1974

On October 20, 1974, flag marshal Mike Conner was tragically killed when he was struck by an out-of-control car on the final turn. At the time, the track had a single guard rail with basic metal rail horse racing fencing behind it.

Active in the 1990s and 2000s

Enid Speedway remained active and well-known throughout the 1990s and 2000s, featuring racing classes such as Pro Stock, Mini Stock, Modified, Street Stock, Factory Stock, Enduro Stock, Limited Sportsman, Pure Stock, and Cruisers.

Challenges and Revival

In 2009, like many other dirt track speedways at the time, Enid Speedway suffered from low attendance, leading to its closure in 2011. In 2013, Justin Bingham from Jus 10 Time took over promotions for the circuit. Despite holding a two-year contract, he faced setbacks with the Fairgrounds Trust Authority board and struggled to revive racing at the venue.

In 2016, the contract for the speedway was awarded to Kip Hughes and Mark Brill. That same year, Mark Brill founded the Sooner Late Model Series. Racing events began to normalize once again in 2017, with headline events featuring the Oil Capital Racing Series sprint cars, along with modified, pure stock, and sport mod class racing. Each event often attracted over 100 cars.

Present-Day Racing

Successful racing continues to this day, featuring 305 Sprint Cars and Late Models. Events are held once a month from April through October.

Sources:
The Third Turn
Enid Speedway Memories (Facebook Group)
Enid Buzz
Enid News
Wingless Oklahoma Warriors (WOW) [Facebook Group]