Dirt Track Racing

Dirt track racing is a type of auto racing performed on oval tracks. It began in the United States before World War I and became widespread during the 1920s and 30s. Two different types of racecars predominated - open wheel racers in the Northeast and West and stock cars in the South. The open wheel racers were built purposefully for racing and the stock cars were ordinary automobiles modified to varying degrees for racing.

Dirt track racing is the single most common form of auto racing in the United States. There are hundreds of local and regional racetracks throughout the nation: some estimates range as high as 1500. The sport is popular in Australia and Canada also. Many of the cars may also race on asphalt short tracks during the racing season.