By Matt Miller matt@dmcityview.com
Action in the intersection
Figure 8 races keep drivers and audiences on the edge of their seats
The number “8” has played itself into mainstream culture for many years. It’s considered a lucky number in Asian cultures and is also a popular move in ice-skating. But away from the grace and beauty on the ice, the number “8” has an entirely different meaning for those in the racing world. It’s a place of thrills and spills, jam-packed with chaos, mayhem and catastrophes all happening in one location. It’s the sport of Figure 8 racing, which is a thrill ride for those on the track and those sitting in the stands.
“It’s an adrenaline rush the whole time you’re out there,” said Sean Annear, a Figure 8 racer from Adel. “You just get in the zone, and nothing else matters.”
Annear has been racing at the Dallas County Fairgrounds for 18 years. A third-generation racer, Annear spent his childhood days racing go-carts while his father and grandfather competed in Figure 8 races. When Annear was old enough, his father introduced him to Figure 8 racing.
“This is something that has been in my family for a long time,” said Annear, 34. “We love to race, and I’m glad that I’ve been able to keep that tradition going in Dallas County.”
Traditionally, drivers and racing fans pack the Dallas County Fairgrounds from April to October, enjoying the sights and sounds dirt track racing. Officials report that up to 70 cars participate in each race, drawing competitors mainly from central Iowa, but attracting some from all over the state.
“The season has been going really well,” said John Neder, who began helping out at the races about 10 years ago and currently is a Dallas County Fairboard member. “It’s been another successful year.”
While this summer’s torrential rains and flash flooding have cancelled or suspended numerous outdoor events around central Iowa, Neder says the track has held up well against Mother Nature.
“Last year we rebuilt the track to make it wider and longer,” Neder said. “Although it wasn’t ready for our first race this year, this summer’s floods haven’t posed a problem. Ninety-five percent of the time we won’t cancel the races. Rain and a muddier track make it more fun.”
Racetracks in Iowa each have a story to tell, and while the Knoxville Raceway and the Iowa Speedway in Newton receive a majority of the publicity, Neder says their track is special in its own way.
“As far as the Figure 8 tracks I’ve seen, we are the biggest track in the state — in my mind, that means we’re the fastest.”
As of press time, heading into the championship race (Sept. 25 at 6 p.m.), Annear is currently in third place with 580 points, just 50 points behind Rex Fitzgerald with 630 points. First place belongs to Mike Goldsberry with 815. While first place may be out of reach for Annear, he believes second is still attainable.
“I missed a night and broke down last race, but if I finish high next race, I should be locked into second,” Annear said. “Last year I finished runner-up, so another would be just fine.”
As this is the last race of the season, Neder says anything can happen, as drivers will put out all the stops to go out with a bang.
“It’s definitely a thrill show,” Neder said. “Most drivers typically yield to the leaders, but it’s not a mandatory. We’ve had a lot of rollovers and close calls. It definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s a pure adrenaline rush because there’s always the possibility of a crash.” CV
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The Figure 8 races at the Dallas County Fairgrounds attract drivers from across central Iowa. Photo courtesy of Meaghan Bennewitz
