Elko Speedway - Minnesota's Racing Heartbeat

If you're looking for a place where the engines roar and families gather for some genuine fun, Elko Speedway, just a little bit south of Lakeville, perhaps ten minutes off I-35, near Minneapolis, has been a cherished spot for generations. This place, in the Elko part of the merged city, really has been a go-to for affordable good times since the mid-1960s, you know. It's the kind of spot where memories are made, a true community hub that brings people together for thrilling events and relaxed evenings under the stars.

There's a lot of chatter about this place, and for good reason, too it's almost a local institution. People have given it a lot of love, with thousands of likes and conversations happening online, and even more thousands showing up in person. It shows, in a way, just how much this spot means to folks around here. Now, with some new folks taking the reins, there's a promise to keep that spirit alive, holding onto all the good things that have made it special for so long, while also bringing in some fresh ideas.

This year, the speedway is opening its doors for its sixty-fifth season, which is pretty amazing when you think about it. The new owners have stepped in, and they're all about making sure the track's long history of great entertainment keeps going strong. They're even talking about new food options and getting drivers together for important chats. So, if you're thinking about a weekend outing, you can expect races, live music, and all sorts of family-friendly activities, which is really cool.

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Table of Contents

• The Heart of Racing in Minnesota - Elko Speedway
• What Makes Elko Speedway a Family Favorite?
• A Fresh Start for Elko Speedway
• What's New at Elko Speedway?
• Tom Ryan's Legacy at Elko Speedway
• How Can You Catch the Action at Elko Speedway?
• What Else Does Elko Speedway Offer?
• A Look Back at Elko Speedway's Champions

The Heart of Racing in Minnesota - Elko Speedway

When you think about places that have been around for a while, providing a consistent source of fun for everyone, Elko Speedway certainly comes to mind. It’s situated quite conveniently, you know, just a short drive from the bigger city lights of Minneapolis. You head south from Lakeville, maybe ten minutes or so, and you’ll find it right off I-35. This location makes it pretty simple for people from all over the area to come out and enjoy what’s happening. It’s been a place where families have gathered for generations, a spot that consistently offers a good time without breaking the bank.

For a really long time, since 1965 to be exact, this track has been a source of affordable excitement. That's a good chunk of history right there, isn't it? It's where many folks have seen their first race, heard the roar of the engines up close, and just generally had a blast with their loved ones. It’s more than just a track; it’s a tradition for so many. The fact that it’s still going strong, offering that same kind of simple, honest fun, says a lot about what it means to the community.

The community connection is pretty clear when you look at the numbers, too. There are tens of thousands of people who follow the speedway online, showing their support and keeping up with what's going on. Thousands more talk about it, sharing their experiences and excitement. And, perhaps most telling, tens of thousands have actually visited the place, walking through its gates to experience the atmosphere for themselves. This kind of engagement really speaks to the lasting appeal of Elko Speedway, proving it’s a cherished gathering spot for many.

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What Makes Elko Speedway a Family Favorite?

You might wonder what it is about Elko Speedway that keeps people coming back, generation after generation, for all this time. Well, for one thing, it's always been about making sure everyone can have a good time without having to spend a fortune. That focus on affordable family fun has been a cornerstone of what they do since the very beginning, back in 1965. It's not just about the racing, though that's a big part of it, of course. It's about the whole experience, you know, being able to bring the kids, grandparents, and friends together for an outing that's truly enjoyable.

The atmosphere is a big draw, too. It's a place where you can feel the excitement in the air, hear the cheers, and really get into the spirit of things. Whether it's the thrill of the cars speeding around the track or the sound of live music filling the air, there’s always something happening that brings a smile to people’s faces. It's a spot where you can relax and just enjoy being together, away from the everyday hustle. That, honestly, is a pretty valuable thing these days.

And it’s not just about what happens on the track itself. The speedway has a history of offering different kinds of entertainment, making sure there’s something for everyone. It’s pretty clear that the goal has always been to create an environment where families can make lasting memories, whether they're racing fans or just looking for a pleasant way to spend a weekend evening. That commitment to broad appeal is a big reason why so many people consider Elko Speedway a favorite destination for their leisure time.

A Fresh Start for Elko Speedway

There's been some big news recently for Elko Speedway, a kind of fresh start that's got everyone talking. The speedway recently opened its doors for its sixty-fifth season, which is a pretty incredible milestone when you think about it. But this season is a little bit different, as it's kicking off under new ownership. The place was sold for a good sum of money, four million dollars, which shows just how much value people see in this long-standing institution. This change marks a new chapter for a spot that's been a part of so many lives for so long.

The folks who have taken over, Mega Properties, are stepping into some pretty big shoes, given the track's long and rich history. But they’ve made it clear that they understand what Elko Speedway means to people. They’ve promised to keep the good things going, to preserve the track’s long and successful story, and to make sure the entertainment factor stays high. That's a pretty reassuring message for anyone who loves the place, knowing that the traditions and spirit will continue.

It’s a bittersweet moment, too, for Tom Ryan, who had been at the helm of Elko Speedway for a quarter of a century. After twenty-five years, he’s passed the torch, and you can imagine that saying goodbye to something you’ve put so much into would be quite a moment. His farewell has been described as heartfelt, and it marks the end of a significant era for the speedway. But with the new leadership, there’s a clear determination to keep the races going strong into the future, building on all that history.

What's New at Elko Speedway?

With new folks in charge at Elko Speedway, you might be wondering what changes are coming down the pike. Well, the new owners are definitely bringing some fresh ideas to the table, even while promising to hold onto the good stuff. For instance, they’ve announced that there will be a new food partner on site, which is pretty exciting for anyone who enjoys a snack or a meal while watching the races. Good food can really add to the whole experience, you know.

They’re also planning to have driver meetings, which suggests a real focus on the racing community and making sure everyone is on the same page. This kind of attention to detail can make a big difference in how smoothly things run and how much fun everyone has. It shows they’re thinking about all aspects of the speedway, from the fans in the stands to the folks out on the track.

Beyond those specific announcements, the general vibe is one of renewed energy and a vision for the future. The idea is to keep the legendary track racing forward, building on its past successes while also looking for ways to make things even better. So, while the core of Elko Speedway will remain, you can expect some nice updates and improvements that aim to make every visit even more enjoyable for everyone.

Tom Ryan's Legacy at Elko Speedway

For twenty-five years, Tom Ryan was the person steering the ship at Elko Speedway, and that's a pretty long time to be in charge of such a beloved place. During his time, he saw the speedway through many seasons, making it a consistent source of entertainment and a key part of the local community. His dedication really helped shape what Elko Speedway became for so many people over the years.

When it came time for him to step away, selling Elko Speedway to Mega Properties, it was described as a bittersweet moment. You can imagine the emotions involved in letting go of something you've poured so much of your life into. It's a heartfelt story, one that marks the end of an era for the speedway under his watch. But his efforts over a quarter-century have left a lasting mark, setting the stage for what comes next.

The new owners have made it clear they want to build on the foundation Tom Ryan helped create. They’re determined to keep the track racing into the future, honoring the history and success that he was so much a part of. So, while he may no longer be the owner, his influence and the legacy of his twenty-five years will certainly continue to be a part of Elko Speedway's ongoing story.

How Can You Catch the Action at Elko Speedway?

If you're planning a visit to Elko Speedway to catch some of the action, it's pretty simple to figure out when to go. The gates usually open to the public at 4:30 PM, which gives you a bit of time to get settled in, grab some food, and find your spot before things really get going. As for when the races or other events actually start, you'll want to take a look at their schedule of events. That's where you'll find all the specific times for when the excitement begins.

For those involved with the racing, like drivers and their teams, there's also a pit gate, and its opening times are also on the schedule. This helps keep things organized and ensures everyone who needs to be there can get in at the right moment. Knowing these times ahead of your visit can make your experience a lot smoother, allowing you to plan your day around the events you want to see.

To make sure you're always in the know about what's happening at Elko Speedway, they make it easy to stay updated. You can follow them on MyRacePass, which is a great way to get all the latest information. This includes schedules for upcoming events, results from past races, points standings, and any news they might share. It’s a handy way to keep up with everything going on at the track.

What Else Does Elko Speedway Offer?

Beyond the exciting races, Elko Speedway offers a few other things to make your visit enjoyable, too. For instance, they have a full concessions stand right on site, so you won't go hungry or thirsty while you're there. They also have a bar available, which is pretty convenient for adults looking for a drink. This means you don't need to worry about bringing your own food or beverages from outside, as they've got you covered with plenty of options.

Interestingly, Elko Speedway isn't just about the racing. It also has a drive-in movie theater, which is a really cool addition. You can catch current blockbusters on the big screen, and they use state-of-the-art digital projection, so the picture looks great. For sound, you can tune into an FM reception, which is a nice touch. And just like at the speedway, there’s a well-stocked concessions stand at the drive-in too, so you can enjoy your movie with all the classic snacks. It's a great way to enjoy a film with friends and family, making it a truly versatile entertainment spot.

So, whether you're there for the high-speed action on the track or a relaxing evening under the stars watching a movie, Elko Speedway has different ways to have a good time. It’s about providing varied entertainment options that cater to different tastes, all within one convenient location. That, in a way, makes it a pretty unique place for a day or night out.

A Look Back at Elko Speedway's Champions

Elko Speedway has a long and storied past, and a big part of that history involves the drivers who have pushed their limits on the track. Looking back at the champions from the early days, particularly the late 1960s and 1970s, you see some names that really stood out in the racing community. These drivers really showed what they could do, year after year, earning their spot in the speedway’s record books.

In the late model category, a few names appear quite often. Norm Setran, for example, took home the championship in 1966, 1967, and again in 1972. Dan Prziborowski was another strong contender, winning in 1968, 1971, and 1973. Bob Jusola also made his mark, securing the late model title in 1969 and 1970. These drivers truly dominated their era, leaving a lasting impression on Elko Speedway's history.

As the 1970s moved along, other drivers also rose to the top. Mike Demars became a late model champion in 1974, and Johnny Boegeman followed in 1975. The speedway also had a Hobby Stock category, where Tom Mathews claimed the title in 1974, and Dick Collins was the champion in 1975. Mark also took a late model championship in 1976. These champions, in their own way, helped build the racing heritage that Elko Speedway carries forward today.

The story of Elko Speedway is a long one, filled with the roar of engines, the cheers of crowds, and the making of countless memories. From its start in 1965, this spot near Minneapolis has been a consistent source of affordable fun for families, whether it's through the thrilling races or a relaxing night at the drive-in. With new owners now at the helm, promising to honor its rich past while bringing in fresh ideas, Elko Speedway looks set to keep its place as a beloved community gathering spot, continuing its legacy of excitement and good times for many years to come.