IMCA Modified racers like...
IMCA Modified racers like these combatants at Missouri's West Plains Motor Speedway gear up to run with hundreds of others at the IMCA Supernationals, better known simply as "Boone."
There is no better showcase of racing machinery than the IMCA Supernationals. In terms of sheer car count, no one can even come close. Nearly 700 cars in four stock car classes converged on the well-groomed 3/8-mile central Iowa oval last September. Throw in the Sprint Cars and the number went over 700. The weeklong Supernationals required nearly 300 races to eventually crown champions.
Not surprisingly, IMCA's own Modified class dominates the scene. The division, created by the sanction in the late '70s, started the Supernationals craze in 1983. This one-division show took root until a second class was added in 1988. Late Models joined in and the two divisions built the momentum for the event. The 1989 Supernationals saw Sprint Cars and Stock Cars added for a four-division extravaganza. The fifth and final class came in 1997 when the Hobby Stocks joined the fun.
Traditionally, the Modifieds draw well over 300 cars. Expect the century mark to be topped for Stock Cars and Hobby Stocks.
Iowa racers have dominated the winner's list with all Stock Car and Hobby Stock champions hailing from the Hawkeye State. There have been Modified champions from five states, including Arizona, home of defending champion Darren Williams. Iowa drivers have won 13 of the 14 Late Model crowns.
It's hard to fathom the space needed to put on a massive endeavor like this. Even more difficult to imagine is the quality of the racing surface as the week goes along. A strict regimen of track grooming is a key to the success of the event.
The 2003 IMCA Supernationals promises to be another chase for the ages with incredible car counts. Visit www.circletrack.com for highlights of this year's Supernationals.
This is the place where battle...
This is the place where battle will be done. The 3/8-mile speedway hosts regular racing through the summer, then draws 30,000 people for the Supernationals each year.
A wide racing surface is a...
A wide racing surface is a good reason why three-wide racing is commonplace. Drivers will take their cars into the corner with room to run high or low.
The pit area extends for a...
The pit area extends for a great distance. Modifieds alone will occupy about half of the available territory.
Imagine having the responsibility...
Imagine having the responsibility of keeping 300 cars within the rules. Tech inspectors work in teams to get the job done while keeping an eye on the rulebook for safe and fair racing.
Keeping the track in working...
Keeping the track in working order falls onto the track crews, which turn the surface and keep plenty of water on it for exciting racing.
Late Models don't arrive in...
Late Models don't arrive in the big numbers, but they do offer their share of excitement. The Late Model schedule kicks off the Supernationals slate with the running of a Deery Brothers sanctioned race.
There's little downtime in...
There's little downtime in the program for many. When the cars are in the pit area, there is usually something that has to be done, major or minor. If you can walk away from the car for a break, it's a good day.
Expect long lines when it's...
Expect long lines when it's time for track action. Each competitor comes with the hope of making the Saturday finale, but it can be a long road.