The track, located in in Kaukauna, Wis., has recently renewed its commitment to the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) through a multi-year sanctioning agreement.
Wisconsin International Raceway encompasses over 120 acres and features a 1/4-mile drag strip and ½-mile oval track. Opened in 1966 by Joe Van Daalwyk, Connie De Leeuw, and Clyde Schumacher, multiple records have been broken at WIR with some of the most famous racers gracing the facility. Former track champions include NASCAR’s Matt Kenseth and the late Alan Kulwicki. NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin and the late Dick Trickle were former champions of the track’s Red, White and Blue Series, while three-time Indianapolis 500 champion Bobby Unser ranks among the other major race winners.
Names such as “Fast” Albert Fontanini have taken passes down the drag strip, which was named the IHRA Summit SuperSeries Track of the Year in 2012. After the 2017 season, Roger Van Daalwyk sold the track to his son Dan and his wife Ginger Van Daalwyk. Together, they are carrying on the rich history of the track within the motorsports community.
A big part of Wisonsin International Raceway's success over the years has been its commitment to being a true family-friendly track.
“There’s a camaraderie that exudes from the racers that represent Wisconsin International Raceway,” said IHRA Division Director Jon O’Neal. “It shows that the family atmosphere is alive and well at the facility as it breeds a strong commitment to the common good each year at the Team Finals. I’m happy to have them as part of the IHRA family.”
During the season, the drag strip plays host to 17 rounds of IHRA Summit SuperSeries bracket racing. Last season, Dan Zepnick represented WIR at the IHRA World Finals Race of Champions in Memphis by winning the Hagerty Mod (No Box) final.
Wisconsin International Raceway is a track many families from the area can rely on. Ticket prices are kept low with kids twelve and under admitted free. For more information about Wisconsin International Raceway, click here.
To become an official IHRA member visit the IHRA membership page or call (561) 337-3446.
