Sprint Car Racing

Sprint Car racing is regarded by many race fans as the most radical form of oval-track racing in the world. These open-wheeled, open-cockpit cars typically weigh 1200-1500 lbs. and produce 600-900 hp giving them an unparalleled horsepower to weight ratio. Sprint cars have a very distinctive look with their lack of fenders, huge right-rear tires, offset chassis, and in some cases, huge wings on top of the cars. Sprint car racing thrives at short tracks across the country. While thsese machines are most commonly found racing on dirt ovals, some divisions also compete on pavement. Indiana has perhaps the most colorful history of sprint car racing and open-wheel racing in general, but the sport is alive and well in many regions including the west coast.

These machines were once the springboard to the Indy 500, but in recent years has propelled many drivers into the top tiers of NASCAR. Some of the biggest names in racing have strapped themselves behind the seat of a sprint, including: Mario Andretti, Parnelli Jones, AJ Foyt, Johnny Rutherford, Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, Ryan Newman, Kasey Khane, and Steve Kinser. Sprint cars have one of the most loyal fan bases in all of motorsports, especially in Indiana. Racers from across the country often move to the Hoosier state in hopes of an open-wheel career that will lead them to stardom. The primary sanctioning body for wingless sprint car racing is the United States Auto Club (USAC), while the top tier of winged sprint car competition lies in the World of Outlaws. While many up-and-coming drivers use Sprint Cars as a step to the next level, it is also a destination series for many drivers because of it's intense competition, excitement, high-dollar purses, and the simple fact that being a successful sprint car racer means that you are in fact the real deal. With constant side-by-side racing action, awesome power, lightning-fast speeds, and breath-taking powerslides, this is a sport that must be witnessed in person to be truly appreciated.