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Volusia Speedway Park
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Volusia Speedway Park (formerly known as Volusia County Speedway and Barberville Speedway) is an auto racing facility located near Barberville in Volusia County, Florida. It currently operates as a 1/2-mile dirt oval and a 1/5-mile dirt oval for karts.
Key Information
Overview
[edit]The track was built by Benny Corbin and opened in 1968 as a 1/4 mile dirt oval, operating through 1969. It expanded to 3/8 mile (still dirt) in August 1969, operating through 1971. It was expanded again to 1/2 mile in February 1972. Dick Murphy bought the racetrack in 1982, and paved it in 1989. Murphy sold it in 1992, and re-purchased it in 1997, when it was converted back to dirt.[1]
The 3/8 mile dirt oval opened behind turn four of the original oval, operating from 1993 until it was paved in 1998 for a NASCAR Southeast Series event, but in 1999 it was converted back into dirt. In late 2004 the paved surface was torn up and removed and the karting track that was located inside of the asphalt track was redesigned and took over all of the former track.[2] The 1/5 mile dirt karting track complex is known as "Volusia Karting".
Murphy sold the facility in 2005 to DIRT Motorsports, later renamed the World Racing Group.[3]
Various pit scenes from the 1990 film Days of Thunder were filmed at the speedway.
Events
[edit]The track currently hosts races from both the World of Outlaws Sprint Car and Late Model series, along with the DIRTcar UMP late model series, the Super DIRTcar Series Big-Block Modifieds and UMP Modifieds.[4] In 2021, Daytona Beach Bike Week flat track events, sanctioned by American Flat Track, moved from Daytona to Volusia Speedway Park.[5] In 2022, American Flat Track added a Biketoberfest race at Volusia.[6]
Winternationals
[edit]Since 1972 Volusia Speedway Park’s showcase event has been the now branded DIRTcar Nationals. Originally a three-night event, it has grown to a three-week extravaganza of DIRTcar racing featuring the nation’s premier short-track racing divisions.[4] Wayne Shugart claimed the first championship, and competition for the Gator Trophy has since marked the beginning of the short-track racing season.[2][7]
NASCAR events
[edit]The NASCAR Southeast Series had run nine races in the complex between 1991 and 1998, the first eight events were on the 1/2 mile paved track. The last event, in 1998, was on the 3/8 mile recently paved oval but since it was converted back into dirt for 1999, the track was removed from Southeast schedule.
From 1989 until 1992, the track hosted a NASCAR Busch Series race on the 1/2 mile layout.[8]
| Date | Winner | Race |
|---|---|---|
| July 1, 1989 | Rob Moroso | Firecracker 200 |
| June 23, 1990 | Tommy Houston | Firecracker 200 |
| March 24, 1991 | Kenny Wallace | Spring 200 |
| July 12, 1992 | Steve Grissom | X-1R Firecracker 200 |
References
[edit]- ^ Macur, Juliet (February 5, 1998}.Track's Altered State, Orlando Sentinel. FL. Retrieved February 4, 2019.
- ^ a b Prieur, Matt (January 25, 2018). "DIRTcar Late Models Set the Stage for the World Of Outlaws Craftsman Late Model Series at Volusia". DIRTcar Racing (Press release). Retrieved October 21, 2025.
- ^ Goodwin, Kelly (October 4, 2016). Volusia Speedway Park closes but will return for DIRTcar Nationals. The Daytona Beach News-Journal. Retrieved February 4, 2019.
- ^ a b Willis, Ken (February 1, 2025). "DIRTcar Nationals kicking up dirt in Barberville. New Smyrna also ready to roll soon". The Daytona Beach News-Journal . FL. Retrieved October 20, 2025.
- ^ Dean, Zach (March 11, 2021). "Shayna Texter-Bauman looks to put 'rough' AFT season behind her in Volusia Speedway opener". The Daytona Beach News-Journal. FL. Retrieved October 20, 2025.
- ^ "2022 Progressive American Flat Track Schedule Announced". Cycle News. November 24, 2021. Retrieved October 20, 2025.
- ^ "History - Volusia Winternationals". Dirt on Dirt. Retrieved October 21, 2025.
- ^ "Volusia County Speedway". Racing-Refence. NASCAR Digital Media, LLC. Retrieved October 22, 2025.
External links
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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Volusia Speedway Park.
Volusia Speedway Park
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Volusia Speedway Park is a prominent dirt track racing facility located at 1500 State Road 40 in De Leon Springs, Volusia County, Florida, featuring a high-banked, half-mile dirt oval configuration renowned as the "World's Fastest Half Mile" for its speed and challenging layout.[1][2][3]
Established in 1968 by promoter Benny Corbin as the Barberville Raceway—a sandy quarter-mile dirt track—it quickly became a hub for regional dirt racing before expanding to its current half-mile size during Corbin's ownership, which lasted until 1982.[1][4]
Following its sale in 1982, the track was briefly paved into a half-mile asphalt oval from 1989 to 1997, hosting NASCAR Busch Series and Southeast Series events, including driver Kenny Wallace's first NASCAR national series victory in 1991, before reverting to dirt and adding a 3/8-mile oval that now serves as a go-kart track.[1][4]
Today, it operates year-round with a focus on dirt racing, most notably as the host of the annual 15-night DIRTcar Nationals from late January to mid-February, which kicks off the national dirt racing season and features major series like the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars and Late Models, drawing top drivers and streamed live on DIRTVision.[1][2][5]
The venue also supports local divisions such as UMP Modifieds and Florida Old Crate Racin' Series, while maintaining track records like Paul McMahan's 12.569-second lap in a 410 sprint car set in 2011, underscoring its enduring role in American motorsports.[6][1]
The 1991 Spring 200 stood out as a milestone, with Kenny Wallace claiming his first NASCAR victory after 70 starts, an achievement televised nationally that underscored the track's growing prominence. Purses for these events rose modestly over the years, from around $58,000 to nearly $80,000, indicating increasing investment in the series' expansion. Attendance figures, while not exhaustively documented, supported vibrant atmospheres, with the 1991 race drawing a notably large crowd.[1]
Complementing the Busch Series were select NASCAR Southeast Series events, which focused on regional stock car talent and added depth to the paved-era schedule. The series ran two races at the track in the early 1990s: the 1991 Bondesen All Pro 200 on July 6, won by Gary Bradberry after 204 laps, and the 1992 Fred Bondesen 200 on April 4, secured by Jeff Purvis in 200 laps. These 100-mile contests emphasized short-track strategy and local flavor, with formats similar to the Busch races but tailored to Southeast division competitors.[47][48][49]
Overall, these NASCAR-sanctioned races from 1989 to 1992 elevated Volusia Speedway Park's national profile by integrating it into major series calendars and exposing it to broader audiences through television coverage. The events attracted competitive fields and helped position the track as a key Florida racing destination before NASCAR involvement concluded after the 1992 season, preceding the venue's return to dirt racing in 1997.[1][41]
History
Founding and early development
Volusia Speedway Park was established in 1968 by Benny Corbin, a Korean War veteran and experienced Sprint Car driver from Indiana, who purchased a property in Barberville, Florida, and transformed it into a quarter-mile dirt oval known initially as Barberville Raceway.[1][7] The track began operations focusing on grassroots dirt track racing, featuring local events with old jalopies and modified cars that drew community participation and fostered a sense of regional motorsport enthusiasm.[1][8] In August 1969, the facility underwent its first expansion to a three-eighths-mile dirt oval, allowing for larger crowds and more dynamic racing formats that enhanced its appeal as a local venue.[9][10] This upgrade supported the growing interest in dirt racing within Volusia County, where Corbin's vision emphasized accessible, high-energy competitions for amateur and semi-professional drivers.[7] By February 1972, under Corbin's continued ownership, the track was further expanded to a half-mile dirt oval, solidifying its status as a prominent regional racing destination capable of hosting bigger events and attracting drivers from beyond the immediate area.[10][9] Early key events during this period included the introduction of winter Late Model racing series in 1972, which marked the beginning of structured dirt series competitions and helped establish the track's reputation for seasonal high-stakes races.[8] These developments reflected Corbin's commitment to evolving the speedway into a community hub for dirt racing innovation and spectator engagement through the early 1980s.[1]Ownership changes and track transformations
In 1982, Benny Corbin, the original founder and owner of Volusia Speedway Park, sold the facility to Dick Murphy with two key stipulations designed to safeguard its future: Corbin retained the right to continue maintaining the track, and the premier events, particularly the DIRTcar Nationals, were required to persist uninterrupted.[1] These conditions reflected Corbin's commitment to the venue's role as a cornerstone of dirt track racing in Florida, ensuring continuity amid the transition.[1] Murphy's ownership from 1982 to 1992 and again from 1997 to 2005 emphasized the preservation of the track's dirt racing heritage, even as national interest in motorsports surged and attracted broader audiences to high-profile dirt events.[11] As a successful team owner in his own right, Murphy positioned Volusia as a vital hub for dirt racing series, fostering its reputation through consistent event hosting and operational stability without fundamentally shifting its foundational identity.[12] His stewardship navigated the evolving landscape of the sport, balancing tradition with the demands of increasing attendance and competition.[11] By the early 2000s, following Murphy's tenure, the track was acquired by DIRT Motorsports in 2005 for a reported $2.5 million, a deal that formalized under the broader umbrella of the World Racing Group shortly thereafter.[13][14] This transition marked a pivotal shift to corporate management by a leading motorsports entertainment conglomerate, which oversees major sanctioning bodies and venues across the United States.[15] Throughout these ownership changes, targeted transformations enhanced safety and spectator experience—such as elevated and widened grandstands for improved visibility and legroom, along with reinforced barriers—while preserving the core half-mile dirt oval configuration.[16][17]Paving era and NASCAR involvement
In 1989, under owner Dick Murphy, Volusia Speedway Park underwent a significant transformation when its half-mile dirt oval was paved over with asphalt to attract higher-profile stock car racing.[1] This change also included the construction of a new 3/8-mile dirt oval adjacent to the main track behind turn four, which was initially used for dirt racing but later repurposed for go-kart events after being paved in 1998.[9] To align with NASCAR's branding during this asphalt phase, the facility was renamed Volusia County Speedway from 1989 to 1992.[1] The paving enabled the track to host NASCAR Busch Series (now Xfinity Series) events for the first four years, marking a temporary shift from its dirt heritage to accommodate national touring series racing. The inaugural asphalt race was the Firecracker 200 on July 1, 1989, won by Rob Moroso from the pole position in a 200-lap event. Subsequent Busch Series races included the Firecracker 200 on June 23, 1990, claimed by Tommy Houston; the Spring 200 on March 24, 1991, where Kenny Wallace secured his first career Busch victory; and the final event, the Firecracker 200 on July 4, 1992, won by Steve Grissom. These races often featured intense competition on the high-banked oval, with some weekends combining asphalt Busch events and dirt racing on the smaller oval to appeal to diverse audiences.[1] During this period, the NASCAR Southeast Series was introduced to the venue, running eight events on the paved half-mile from 1991 to 1997 as part of its regional stock car schedule.[18] By 1997, following Murphy's repurchase of the track, the decision was made to rip up the asphalt and revert the half-mile oval to dirt, ending the paving experiment after eight years. This move reflected owner preferences rooted in dirt racing traditions, alongside fan demand for the format and the high operational costs of maintaining asphalt surfaces.[1][3]Return to dirt and recent developments
In 1997, Volusia Speedway Park was converted back to a half-mile dirt oval, ending the paved era and restoring its emphasis on dirt track racing series.[1][19] The track was sold in 2005 to DIRT Motorsports, which later became part of the World Racing Group, leading to operational enhancements such as improved facilities for racers and spectators, national promotion of events like the DIRTcar Nationals, and standardization of racing programs across affiliated tracks.[11][20][16] In 2016, weekly racing programs were temporarily suspended following the departure of local promoter Wendi Underwood, though major events including the DIRTcar Nationals continued uninterrupted.[14][21] A key infrastructure project occurred in 2018, when World Racing Group invested $500,000 in overhauling the main frontstretch grandstand, adding elevated seating for approximately 2,800 fans, wider aisles, improved handicap accessibility, and a new control tower to enhance safety and viewing experience.[17][22][23] Dick Murphy, who owned the track during two periods totaling over two decades, passed away in May 2023.[11] Kent Corbin, son of the track's founder Benny Corbin, has continued to contribute to its operations as of 2025, serving in roles such as parts supplier for weekly events and supporting racer logistics, thereby preserving the venue's legacy in dirt racing.[1][1][24]Track and facilities
Location and layout
Volusia Speedway Park is situated at 1500 East State Road 40, De Leon Springs, FL 32130, in rural Volusia County near Barberville, approximately 20 miles west of Daytona International Speedway.[6][1] The facility is embedded in central Florida's natural landscape, featuring wooded areas and proximity to the St. Johns River, which contributes to the region's humid subtropical climate and occasional weather variability that can impact dirt track conditions.[25] The current layout centers on a half-mile high-banked dirt oval as the primary track, measuring 0.5 miles in perimeter with a 75-foot width, straightaways banked at 7 degrees, and turns at 10 degrees.[26] The surface consists of clay, particularly a brown gumbo-type clay that provides a distinctive racing texture.[2] A separate 3/8-mile dirt oval, located on adjacent property, serves for go-kart racing and practice.[1] This configuration evolved from an initial quarter-mile sandy oval in 1968 to the half-mile dirt setup by the early 1980s, following expansions and a paving phase from 1989 to 1997, before returning to dirt to restore its core identity.[1]Amenities and improvements
Volusia Speedway Park provides a range of spectator amenities to accommodate fans during events, including a main grandstand with a seating capacity of approximately 10,000.[26] The grandstand features reserved seating sections with contoured seats, back support, and enhanced legroom in rows 15-22 of sections 5-7, along with general admission areas and bleachers for broader access.[27] Pit areas are open to fans on select nights, offering close-up views of preparations and equipped with dedicated concessions for quick service.[28] On-site concessions include a midway vendor area with diverse food options, snacks, beverages, and merchandise stalls to support comfortable viewing.[27] Restrooms and showers are available throughout the facility to meet basic needs during races.[27] Operational facilities at the speedway support efficient event management and broadcasting, including a media center for credentialed personnel to access press areas and resources.[27] Timing and scoring systems provide real-time race data, ensuring accurate results dissemination to officials and broadcasters. Safety features are prioritized with catch fences comprising welded wire mesh and steel retention cables along the track perimeter, complemented by earthen-reinforced guardrails and buffer zones in key turns.[29] Medical stations and emergency response protocols are in place, with staff trained to handle incidents and coordinate with local services as needed.[30] Significant improvements have enhanced the venue's infrastructure, notably the 2018 $500,000 renovation of the frontstretch grandstand and retaining wall, which added premium seating options and improved overall fan comfort.[22] This project also included a new control tower and relocated flag stand to streamline operations.[17] Earlier that year, a $300,000 safety upgrade installed a 46-inch concrete retaining wall and upgraded 17-foot catch fence in turns 1 and 2 to bolster spectator protection.[29] Ongoing maintenance focuses on the dirt surface to maintain optimal racing conditions, with regular grooming and material replenishment.[6] Accessibility is facilitated by ample free general parking for thousands of vehicles, including designated handicap spots near the main entrance.[27] During major events like the DIRTcar Nationals, RV camping options are available with reserved dry spots measuring up to 25'x50' at $30 per night, accessible via the main gate and supported by on-site pump-out services.[31] For inquiries about facilities or bookings, contact the speedway at (386) 985-4402 or [email protected].[32]Racing events
DIRTcar Nationals
The DIRTcar Nationals, Volusia Speedway Park's flagship annual dirt racing event, has been held every winter since 1972 as a sanctioned showcase by DIRTcar, drawing competitors and fans from across North America to kick off the season.[33] Originally envisioned by track founder Benny Corbin, who opened the facility in 1968 and established the event during his ownership tenure ending in 1982, it has grown into a multi-week spectacle typically spanning late January through mid-February, featuring up to 15 nights of racing in recent years, including doubleheaders.[1] The event's continuity was secured through Corbin's sale stipulations mandating its preservation as a dirt racing staple.[1] The Nationals features a diverse lineup of dirt divisions, headlined by the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Cars in the 410 cubic-inch class, alongside World of Outlaws Late Models, DIRTcar Late Models, DIRTcar UMP Modifieds, and supporting series such as the American Sprint Car Series 360 Sprint Cars and USAC National Sprint Cars.[34] The format emphasizes endurance and consistency, with preliminary nights consisting of heat races, qualifying events, and last-chance showdowns to set the field, culminating in points-based "Big Gator" championships awarded to overall winners across multiple features, often with purses exceeding $900,000 total.[35] Historical milestones include the 50th anniversary celebrated in 2021, which highlighted five decades of elite competition, and track records like Paul McMahan's 12.569-second qualifying lap in the 410 Sprint Car division on February 10, 2011, still standing as the fastest at the half-mile oval.[33][36] Notable moments underscore the event's prestige, such as Kenny Wallace's 2007 victory in the UMP Modifieds, making him the only driver to win features on both the track's asphalt and dirt surfaces.[1] The Nationals also generates substantial economic impact for the local area, with past editions contributing over $6 million to Volusia County through attendance of thousands nightly, vendor activity, and tourism during Florida's "Speedweeks."[37] In 2025, the 54th running served as the traditional season opener for national dirt series, featuring standout performances like Kyle Larson's feature win in the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars on February 8[38] and multiple Gator trophies claimed by drivers including Curt Spalding in UMP Modifieds on February 7, drawing record crowds amid expanded scheduling.[39][40]NASCAR-sanctioned races
Volusia Speedway Park hosted NASCAR-sanctioned stock car races on its paved half-mile oval from 1989 to 1992, marking a significant period of national series involvement after the track's conversion to asphalt that year. These events featured the NASCAR Busch Grand National Series (predecessor to the modern Xfinity Series) and the NASCAR Southeast Series, providing a platform for both established drivers and rising stars on the 0.5-mile configuration. The races typically spanned 200 laps over 100 miles, with purses reflecting the era's competitive scale and drawing crowds eager for high-level stock car action in Central Florida.[41][1] The Busch Series events formed the core of the track's NASCAR calendar during this time, with four consecutive annual races that highlighted the venue's suitability for intermediate-speedway racing. The inaugural event, the 1989 Firecracker 200 on July 1, was won by Rob Moroso in a Chevrolet, establishing the track as a viable stop for the series with a purse of $58,110. Subsequent races maintained the Firecracker branding in 1990 and 1992 while shifting to a spring slot in 1991, showcasing intense competition amid the paved surface's banking and layout.[42][43]| Year | Date | Race Name | Winner | Laps | Purse |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 | July 1 | Firecracker 200 | Rob Moroso | 200 | $58,110 |
| 1990 | June 23 | Firecracker 200 | Tommy Houston | 200 | $68,107 |
| 1991 | March 24 | Spring 200 | Kenny Wallace | 200 | $78,650 |
| 1992 | July 4 | X-1R Firecracker 200 | Steve Grissom | 200 | $79,425 |