2010 will bring many changes to the speedway in Jacksonville, Illinois. A new promoter, new name, updated facilities, and new classes are just some of the changes fans and drivers will see in the coming year.
Former driver and local businessman, Bobby Hawks along with his wife Cathy will be promoting the racetrack in 2010. With the new promoter comes a new name: Jacksonville Speedway.
A tentative schedule has been announced but there will some additions and changes in the coming weeks as some events get finalized. Racing will remain on Friday nights beginning in late April or early May and continue through October, weather permitting. Weekly classes will consist of Open Winged Sprints, Modifieds, Street Stocks and Pony Stocks. A Sportsman class and Micros will alternate weeks to round out the field of five classes.
There are several special events planned and more in the works. The Ideal Ready Mix Sprint Invaders and O’Reilly POWRi series will make several appearances throughout the season. Other special events will include the Leon Smith Memorial and Shaheens Blast From The Past with more to be announced soon.
A complete set of rules for the various classes will be released in the near future, but rules will be consistent with other area tracks for each class. The Winged Sprint Car class will run as an open class with bonus money to be paid weekly for the highest finishing 360’s each night. Anyone with specific questions about classes or rules are encouraged to contact Bob or Cathy Hawks at (217)243-5497 or by email at hawks@jacksonvillespeedway.com.
Other anticipated changes will include upgrades for better driver and fan safety, improved concessions and restrooms, track improvements, and enhancing the appearance of the facilities. A staff is being assembled that will combine many new faces along with a few familiar ones from prior years.
2010 promises to be an exciting and action-packed year at the Jacksonville Speedway and everyone involved is working hard to make sure that both drivers and fans have a fun-filled night at the races. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available.