Auburndale Speedway

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Auburndale Speedway in Winter Haven, FL has been a cornerstone of short track racing for nearly five decades. This quarter-mile paved oval, located at 5640 East County Road 542 in Winter Haven, has become a beloved destination for racing enthusiasts and families alike, offering a unique blend of high-octane action and community spirit.

History and Evolution of Auburndale Speedway

Auburndale Speedway first roared to life in 1974, quickly establishing itself as a premier racing venue in the Sunshine State. Over the years, the track has operated under various names, including Tri-Cities Speedway, Auburndale Speedway Park, Auburndale Motor Speedway, and briefly as Winter Haven Speedway. Each iteration has contributed to the rich tapestry of racing history that defines this iconic venue.

The track’s layout – a challenging quarter-mile paved oval – has remained largely unchanged since its inception, providing a consistent and thrilling racing surface for generations of drivers. This consistency has allowed for the development of a unique racing style that favors both skill and strategy, making Auburndale a true driver’s track.

In 2007, new ownership took over the speedway with a mission to revitalize the facility and bring it back to its former glory. Rex and Colette Guy, the current owners, have been instrumental in this renaissance, implementing numerous improvements and fostering a family-friendly atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the Auburndale Speedway experience. More articles.

Auburndale Speedway: Racing Events and Series

Throughout its history, Auburndale Speedway has played host to a wide array of racing series and events, cementing its status as a versatile and respected venue. In its early years, the track was a regular stop for the NASCAR Late Model Sportsman National Championship, attracting top talent from across the country.

Today, the speedway offers a diverse range of racing classes, catering to both seasoned professionals and up-and-coming drivers. Some of the regular divisions include:

Super Late Models
Pro Trucks
Modifieds
Sportsman
Mini Stocks
Legend Cars
Bandoleros

The track’s schedule is packed with exciting events throughout the racing season, which typically runs from February to December. Weekly Saturday night races form the backbone of the schedule, offering consistent entertainment for local fans and drivers alike.

Signature Events

Auburndale Speedway has become known for its unique and crowd-pleasing special events that go beyond traditional oval racing. Some of the most popular annual attractions include:

Winter Showdown: A multi-day racing extravaganza typically held in February, featuring a variety of classes from Bandoleros and Legends to Late Models and Modifieds. This event has become a staple of the early racing season, attracting drivers from across the country looking to shake off the winter rust.
Crash-O-Mania: A demolition derby-style event that has gained a cult following among fans. Held in November, this two-day spectacle showcases the wilder side of motorsports, with drivers competing in unconventional and often hilarious vehicular combat.
Terror at the Track: A Halloween-themed event that combines racing with spooky attractions, offering a unique experience for families and thrill-seekers alike. In 2024, this event is scheduled to run for 13 terrifying nights in October.
School Bus Figure 8 Race: An end-of-year tradition that sees full-size school buses competing on a figure-8 track, providing an unforgettable and often chaotic racing spectacle.

Notable Drivers and Champions at Auburndale Speedway

Over the years, Auburndale Speedway has seen its fair share of talented drivers grace its asphalt, many of whom have gone on to achieve success at higher levels of motorsport. While specific recent champions are not mentioned in the provided information, the track has a history of producing and hosting skilled drivers across various classes.

In the past, drivers like Joe Nemechek honed their skills at Auburndale before moving on to NASCAR’s national series. The track has also welcomed NASCAR legends like the Alabama Gang (Bobby and Donnie Allison and Neil Bonnett), Lake Speed, Tim Richmond, Ken Schrader, and Rusty Wallace.

The speedway continues to be a proving ground for young talent, with its Legend Car and Bandolero divisions serving as stepping stones for aspiring racers. These classes often feature intense competition among drivers looking to make their mark in the sport.

Community Impact and Family Focus

One of the key factors in Auburndale Speedway’s enduring success has been its commitment to creating a family-friendly atmosphere. The track’s current owners, Rex and Colette Guy, have placed a strong emphasis on making the speedway a welcoming environment for fans of all ages. This approach is evident in their pricing structure, which includes family pack options and free admission for young children, making it an affordable entertainment option for local families.

The speedway also plays an important role in the Winter Haven community, hosting charity events and providing a platform for local businesses to gain exposure through sponsorships and partnerships. This symbiotic relationship between the track and the community has helped ensure Auburndale Speedway’s place as a beloved local institution.

Educational initiatives, such as the Racing for Kids Club, have been implemented to introduce young people to the world of motorsports. This program, open to children aged 9 to 16, offers seminars on the fundamentals of stock car racing, sportsmanship, safety, and rules. It serves as an excellent way to cultivate the next generation of racing enthusiasts and potential drivers.

Facilities and Amenities

Auburndale Speedway has undergone significant improvements over the years to enhance the fan experience. The facility now boasts:

New bleachers for improved spectator comfort
Updated concession stands with a variety of food options
A remodeled track surface for better racing action
Improved technical inspection areas
Enhanced safety features for drivers and spectators

The track’s commitment to starting races on time and maintaining a well-organized event schedule has been appreciated by both fans and competitors, contributing to its reputation as a well-run facility.

Future Prospects for Auburndale Speedway

As Auburndale Speedway approaches its 50th anniversary, it continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of motorsports. The track has embraced social media and online platforms to engage with fans and promote its events, while also maintaining the grassroots, community-focused approach that has been its hallmark for decades.

Looking ahead, the speedway is poised to continue its role as a vital part of the Central Florida racing scene. With a strong schedule of events, including the popular Crash-O-Mania and Terror at the Track, Auburndale Speedway is set to provide thrilling entertainment for years to come.

The track management remains committed to preserving the unique character of Auburndale Speedway while ensuring it remains a competitive and exciting venue. Potential future developments could include:

Further facility upgrades to enhance the fan and driver experience
Expansion of the racing program to include new classes or series
Increased collaboration with national touring series to bring high-profile events to the track
Enhanced community outreach programs to strengthen ties with the local area

Conclusion

Auburndale Speedway stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of short track racing in America. From its humble beginnings in 1974 to its current status as a premier racing destination in Central Florida, the track has weathered the storms of changing times and economic challenges. Its success is a tribute to the passionate racers, dedicated fans, and visionary owners who have all played a part in shaping its legacy.

As the engines roar and the crowds cheer on any given race night, Auburndale Speedway continues to write new chapters in its storied history. Whether it’s a local driver scoring their first win or a future NASCAR star cutting their teeth on the challenging quarter-mile, the spirit of competition and community that defines this track remains as strong as ever. For racing enthusiasts in Winter Haven and beyond, Auburndale Speedway is more than just a racetrack – it’s a home away from home, a place where speed, skill, and spectacle come together in perfect harmony.