HUTCHINSON, Kan. (March 14, 2024) – While he’s yet to promote his first race at Saltcity Racing, Phil Nightingale has already started looking to the future of the big half-mile dirt race track.
Nightingale takes charge of Saltcity Racing-branded programs that feature four IMCA divisions this season at the venerable Kansas State Fairgrounds facility.
“My whole life has been in the automotive world,” explained Nightingale, first a spectator and later a competitor at Hutchinson. “The fair board voted in 2022 to tear the track down but we went to them with a proposal last September.”
“I don’t want to see this track die. I want to see it thrive,” the new Saltcity general manager continued. “I want to go back to the fair board in October with a three-year plan for 2025-2027, with proof that drivers and fans will support the track and keep it alive.”
Friesen Performance IMCA Modifieds, IMCA Sunoco Stock Cars, IMCA Sunoco Hobby Stocks and Friesen Performance IMCA Northern SportMods run April 26, May 24, June 21, July 19, Aug. 3 and Sept. 20 at Saltcity.
Each of those Modified features pays $1,000 to win and comes with Fast Shafts All-Star Invitational qualifying eligibility. Stock Car winners earn $800 and B & B Racing Chassis All-Star qualifying eligibility.
Mach-1 IMCA Sport Compacts may be added later in the season.
Long-time general manager at Mel Hambelton Ford, the home of Hoosier Tire Great Plains and a booming on-line high performance parts supply business, Nightingale crewed for son Jake during his Jet Racing Central Region championship campaign last season.
“Obviously we love the Hoosier Tire, and we love what IMCA does,” he said. “IMCA makes it possible for everybody to race.”
IMCA RaceSaver Sprint Cars following the United Rebel Sprint Series come to town April 26, May 24, July 19-20 and Sept. 20. The USAC Silver Crown is also on the card for same July weekend.
Saltcity has grandstand seating for 10,000. Track prep specialist Mike VanGenderen, promoter at Iowa’s Stuart Speedway, will have the racing surface ready for opening night.
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