Dirt Track Racing Experience, Syracuse NY

This is is as real as dirt track racing experiences can possibly get!

Combine NASCAR stock car racing with the unpredictable slides and drifts of racing on a dirt track and you have a truly unforgettable race car driving experience!

No previous dirt track racing experience required!

When you arrive at Utica-Rome Speedway, you’ll begin with an in-class session where you will cover safety measures, track details, the basic techniques of dirt track driving, and everything you need to know for an adrenaline-pumping driving experience.

Next, it’s time to put on your safety gear (fireproof racing suit, helmet, and HANS device), slide through the race car’s window and into the driver’s seat. A crew member will tighten your 5-point racing harness and connect the one-way radio to your helmet.

As you are ripping around the racetrack, a member of the racing crew will assist you, via your helmet radio, to get your speed up to an incredible level and getting you to drive faster, improving your technique with every lap.

 2024 Dates*

• June 29, 2024
• June 30, 2024

*Dates are subject to change 
This experience has limited space and only selected dates to choose from.

Highlights: 

• Soar around Utica-Rome Speedway’s 1/2-mile dirt oval in a real race car.
• Drive an L-Mod, Late Model, IMCA-UMP Style Modified or Big Block Modified.
• Receive instruction from racing professionals.

What's included:

• 45-minute class instruction.
• Dirt track racing car.
• Safety equipment including helmet, fire resistant driving suits, and HANS device.

Location:   Utica-Rome Speedway, a short drive from Syracuse, New York  VIEW MAP

The Cars*: 

You’ll be able to select from one of the following types of cars:

• L-Mods: Easy to control in a slid, surprisingly fast, and fun to drive! Powered by potent Yamaha FJ1200 engines, these little cars turn huge RPM’s with an internal rev chip not kicking in until 10,800 RPM! Slide your race car into the right gear, put the pedal to the metal and you’ll experience some awesome dirt racing.
• Late Model: Slide behind the wheel of a dirt track Late Model with over 400hp at your control. The race cars are set up to be easy for someone with no experience to drive well. You’ll appreciate the grip those huge Late Model tires give you.
• Big Block Modified: The Beasts of the East! For such a big, intimidating race car Big Block Modifieds are surprisingly easy to drive.
• IMCA- UMP Style Modified: These cars are the most popular race cars in the world! They are an entry level dirt car and make it easy for a driver with little to no experience to go dirt track racing. If you’re looking for the car to move around a little more and really feel the racetrack then this is the car for you!

*Car types are subject to availability.

Need to know:

• All the race cars are equipped with standard transmissions. If you need assistance help operating a standard vehicle the pit crews are the to help you exit the pit area and get up to speed quickly.
• A valid driver’s license is required.
• Minimum age for participation is 18 years.
• Ride Along passengers: The minimum age is 14 years and parent/legal guardian consent waiver must be signed.
• Drivers and Riders must be able climb through a 15” high by 28” wide window that sits 35” from the ground.
• Minimum height for drivers is 5'. Maximum height is permitted is 6′ 3″.
• Waist and chest sizes can be no bigger than 48".
• Dress comfortably for the weather in a t-shirt, and pants or shorts. You will be wearing a full fireproof racing suit over your clothing.
• Open-toed shoes are not permitted. Wear closed-toed shoes with a flexible sole such as sneakers.
• Family and friends are welcome to come and cheer you on.
• Please note that this experience is weather dependant. Should your date be cancelled due to weather, your certificate will be honored for a future date. No refunds can be issued.
• You are financially responsible for all damage caused to the car if crashed while the driver is driving. A Vehicle Protection Plan is available for $30.00, subject to a $1000.00 deductible or for $45 subject to a $500 deductible. You can purchase optional insurance at the race car track on the day of your event or when you reserve your day/time with the experience provider.

Whether you are treating yourself to a bucket list experience or buying as an experience gift for the racing fan in your life, this heart-pounding dirt track racing experience at Utica-Rome Speedway, a short drive from Syracuse, provides the ultimate thrill ride!

How To Book Your Experience