News Release

For Immediate Release: August 29, 2007

"Thunder on the Prairie"

Labor Day Weekend 2007

Oahe Speedway

Jeff Konst, Phillip, is expected to compete this weekend in Oahe Speedway's Labor Day Weekend 2007  "Thunder on the Prairie". (Photo by Motor Race Images)

Labor Day weekend racing at Oahe Speedway, will be kicked off Thursday night in downtown Pierre.  The second annual  "Thunder on the Prairie", will showcase a variety of  race cars from the area in a spectacular display of sound and horsepower.   The cars will be started at 7pm in what is popularly referred to as a "Cacklefest". The concept has it roots in the drag racing culture of California. Several years ago, racers gathered for a hot rod  reunion and the idea to start up a few of the  classic restored dragsters was born. From that humble beginning, the concept has grown to include as many as 45-50 race cars on any given weekend participating in these events.  Last year's event in downtown Pierre was a "thunderous" event, with a great showing of cars and fans .  This year's edition has the makings of an even bigger event.  The race cars will be parked along Pierre street from 5:30pm to 7:30pm on Thursday evening.  At 7pm, the command to start engines will be given.  For a short period, downtown Pierre, will once again feel the "Thunder on the Prairie"...a modern day stampede, of sorts.

Racing action resumes at Oahe Speedway, located 15 miles north of Pierre, on September 1-3. On September 1, the O'Reilly Auto Parts Junior Drag Racing League Challenge will be contested. Oahe Speedway Shootout races sponsored by Fine Line Auto and Anderson Contractors and the 5th and final round of the Dales A-1 Transmission  Super Class Series will also be run on Saturday.  The champion in the first ever Super Class Series at Oahe Speedway will be crowned that day. Sunday, September 2nd, will see the 9th race in the Oahe Speedway Coca Cola/Budweiser points series.  Monday, September 3rd, champions will be determined in all classes of the speedway's Coca Cola/Budweiser points series.  The final standings will determine the roster for the Division 5 ET Finals set to run at Heartland Park in Topeka, KS September 14th-16th, 2007.

Saturday and Sunday's races get underway at 1pm,  with qualifying and final eliminations at 5pm.  Monday's action begins at  9am,  with qualifying and finals starting at 1pm. 

If you are looking for a family activity , then Oahe Speedway is the place to be!  The racing excitement covers all ages, including junior dragsters with drivers as young as eight years old.  Families are encouraged to drive the short distance to Oahe Speedway and watch the races together.  Oahe Speedway is located 14 miles north of Pierre on SD Hwy.1804.  Access to the pits is included with the general admission fee, where everyone has the opportunity to visit with the racers and see their cars up close.  Admission fees are $8 for adults, $5 for teens (13-17 years of age) and free to kids under the age of 12.