Star Speedway facts for kids
Logo used since 2020
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| Location | 176 Exeter Road Epping, New Hampshire |
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| Time zone | UTC−5 (UTC−4 DST) |
| Coordinates | 43°01′45″N 71°02′26″W / 43.029272°N 71.040665°W |
| Operator | Webber family (2011–present) |
| Opened | 1966 |
| Major events | Current: American Canadian Tour (1985, 2013, 2019, 2024–present) International Supermodified Association Star Classic Former: NASCAR Busch North Series (1987–2001) NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour (1985–1987, 1990) |
| Oval (1966–present) | |
| Surface | Asphalt |
| Length | 0.250 mi (0.402 km) |
| Banking | Semi-banked |
Star Speedway is an exciting short-track oval race track located in Epping, New Hampshire. It's a place where fast cars and skilled drivers compete in thrilling races. The track is currently managed by the Webber family and is known for its tour-type modified stock car racing events.
Contents
The Start of Star Speedway
Star Speedway first opened its doors in 1966. A man named Charlie Elliot, who loved cars and racing, was the main person who built it. He was a contractor and restaurant owner from Dover, New Hampshire.
Building the Race Track
Before the track opened, in 1965, Charlie Elliot teamed up with Kendall C. Smith and a local writer named Russ Conway. They decided to build a race track on land that used to be the Star Brick Yard in Epping, New Hampshire.
New Owners Take Over
Elliot, Smith, and Conway later sold their part of Star Speedway in 1983. They then bought another race track nearby called Lee Raceway, which is now known as Lee USA Speedway.
Famous Drivers and Exciting Races
Star Speedway has a rich history of amazing drivers. One of the most famous was Ollie Silva. He was a standout in modified and supermodified races. Ollie won many races even with cars that weren't always the best.
Thrills of the 1970s
In the 1970s, Star Speedway held weekly races for modified and supermodified cars. Fans loved watching Ollie Silva compete against other legends like "Big Daddy" Don McLaren, Eddie West, Jim Cheney, Dick Batchelder, and Paul Richardson. These races created many exciting memories for everyone.
Fun Beyond Racing
The speedway also hosted special events, including races with some players from the Boston Bruins hockey team. It even once featured a very heavy wedding cake, which weighed over 700 pounds (317 kg)!
Major Racing Series at Star Speedway
Star Speedway has been a host for several big racing series over the years.
- In 1985, it held one NASCAR North Tour race.
- From 1987 to 2001, the track hosted 20 NASCAR Busch North Series events.
- Between 1985 and 1990, four NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour events took place at Star Speedway.
Star Speedway in the 2000s
The early 2000s were a bit tough for Star Speedway. The track sometimes had trouble passing town inspections.
Changes in Management
In 2008, Robert MacArthur took over managing the speedway and renamed it "All-STAR." He planned many different types of races, including Supermodifieds, Modifieds, and Late Models. However, not enough fans came, and the track faced financial difficulties.
Temporary Closure and Reopening
Due to issues between the track manager and the town of Epping, the track was mostly closed in 2010. It was allowed to open for just three days in October after necessary repairs were completed.
Recent ACT Races
The facility has hosted two ACT Late Model Tour races, one in 2013 and another in 2019.
The Star Classic Race
Every fall, Star Speedway hosts a special event called the Star Classic. This race features the powerful ISMA Super Modifieds. Famous drivers like Chris Perley, Russ Wood, Mike Ordway, and Indianapolis 500 veteran Bentley Warren have all competed in this 200-lap race.
Improvements and Popularity
Owner Bob Webber has been running the track since Robert MacArthur left. He has made many improvements to the facility. Star Speedway now hosts popular touring series such as PASS, ISMA, Granite State Pro Stock, Tri-Track Modified, and Northeast Classic Lites. In 2015, the track even had a "sold out" event, which was a big achievement for the modern era of the speedway.
Images for kids
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A race on Star Speedway in August 2014
See also
- New England Dragway, another racing venue in Epping
