By Nicole Schroeder
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (Sept. 18, 2025) — Hawkeye Downs Speedway has officially begun transforming its legendary quarter-mile asphalt track into dirt in preparation for Dirt at the Downs, a historic series of events honoring 100 years of racing in Eastern Iowa.
Trucks began hauling in tons of dirt this week to cover the racing surface, bringing the track back to its roots for the first time since the mid-1980s. From its founding in 1925, Hawkeye Downs was home to dirt track racing for more than 60 years before transitioning to asphalt. This fall, fans will have the rare opportunity to experience racing as it began a century ago.
Hawkeye Downs is partnering with Benton County Speedway to present an unforgettable lineup of events, beginning Sept. 27 with a full program of Speedway Motors IMCA Weekly Racing. The card will feature Friesen Performance IMCA Modifieds, Sunoco IMCA Stock Cars, Karl Chevrolet IMCA Northern SportMods, and Sunoco IMCA Hobby Stocks.
“We’re not just talking about history anymore, we’re driving on it,” said Hawkeye Downs Race Director Brian Gibson. “By bringing back the dirt, we’re giving fans a true throwback to our early days of racing while creating new memories this fall.”
A full calendar of special dirt events, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket details can be found at www.hawkeyedowns.org/dirtatthedowns.
As one of Iowa’s premier venues, Hawkeye Downs hosts dozens of trade shows, conventions, and gatherings in its exposition halls and on its racing grounds. Hawkeye Downs is also home to one of two asphalt race tracks in the state of Iowa.
Founded in 1925 and originally known as Frontier Park and Cedar Rapids Speedway, Hawkeye Downs has grown into a cherished nonprofit organization overseen by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors. More information is available at www.hawkeyedowns.org.