Dirt Racing in Mexico

Dirt races are popular in many parts of the United States due to their accessibility and the strong sense of community that surrounds them. What many do not know is that in Mexico, particularly in Chihuahua, there is a similar tradition with decades of history.

An Open Motorsport for Everyone

In some motorsport categories, drivers tend to have the support of large sponsors or resources. Terracería races in Chihuahua, on the other hand, stand out for being more accessible, allowing drivers to compete without the need for large investments. This type of race provides a space where it is possible to participate in a more open way, making it an ideal option for those looking to enter the world of motorsports.

History of Racing in Chihuahua

There is no official record of the first terracería race in Chihuahua, but photographs from the 1970s and 1980s show the constant presence of this discipline. Over the years, many tracks have existed, but in 2024 only Aquiles Speedway Park in Aquiles Serdán and Los Nogales Dirt Track in Delicias remain in operation, both with recent improvements. In 2024, Aquiles Speedway Park hosted the first race of the Nascar Trucks Series of Nascar Mexico. In other regions of Mexico, there are also dirt tracks, such as La Colmena in Hermosillo, Sonora, which was inaugurated in 2014.

Night Races

Most terracería races in Chihuahua are held at night, offering several benefits for both drivers and spectators. The cooler night temperatures help mitigate the extreme heat typical of the region, improving comfort for everyone present. Additionally, the artificial lighting on the tracks creates a unique visual spectacle, highlighting the dust and the cars' shine, making the experience more visually appealing. The track conditions also improve, as the soil stays more humid and compact, reducing the amount of dust and improving traction. This nighttime schedule also facilitates public attendance after their daily activities, increasing turnout, and it helps reduce wear and tear on the cars since the lower temperatures minimize the risk of overheating.

The Competition Tracks

Aquiles Speedway Park is a 750-meter oval, characterized by its simplicity and speed. Los Nogales Dirt Track, on the other hand, is a more technical circuit, with left and right curves and elevation changes that challenge the drivers. Preparing these tracks involves scraping, hydrating, and leveling the surface with heavy machinery. During the races, the track is kept wet to reduce dust and ensure visibility.

In 2024, both tracks hosted 15 events, surpassing the number of events held by the two most important motorsport categories in Mexico: Nascar Mexico and Súper Copa Roshfrans.

Categories and Competition Formats

The categories in terracería races in Chihuahua include:

• V8 Standard and Novice: Vehicles modified from their factory version, with divisions for novices and experts.
• Pony Experts and Novices: Volkswagen cars with an almost factory 4-cylinder AP engine, divided into novice and expert classes.
• Modified: Evolution of the V8 Standard category, with lighter and faster cars.
• Libre: Category where dirt late model and IMCA compete.

The dirt late model cars are 2,300-pound vehicles with steel tube chassis and aluminum bodies. Equipped with V-8 engines from Chevrolet, Chrysler, and Ford, they generate 850 horsepower and reach over 9,000 rpm.

All categories must meet safety requirements, including roll cages, safety harnesses, helmets, suits, gloves, and fireproof shoes. Occasionally, preliminary races are held to determine who qualifies for the final. The events are usually 20-lap sprints.