Dirt racing is a type of racing where cars and trucks race around an oval track that is made mostly of clay and dirt opposed to gravel like you see in more common Nascar races. This sport began in the early 1900s, and became the most popular in the early 20s due to racers using fairgrounds as their event spaces across multiple states. Those who participated in these events were called daredevils, and they lived up to their name because the sport had not been completely developed and they were doing things their own way. As time went on the sport developed into a widespread event, with participants building their own cars and trucks, and using different classifications for those racing against one another. Dirt racing has grown tremendously in the past years, attracting all types of racers and spectators and getting the eye of large brands like Monster.
Now that you know a little history about dirt racing, here are some terms that you should know and learn before either hitting the track or going to your first event to watch.
A-Main Event – Also called the “Feature.” The feature event is biggest race of the program for each class. This is the race that has the most cars, points, prize money, and is generally from 20 to 50 laps.
Attrition – The rate at which cars drop out of a race. This is due to mechanical failures or crashes.
Bench Racing – Talking about racing.
B-Main Event – The “last chance race” to get into the main event.
Catch Fence – The fence along the wall that protects spectators from errant cars and parts
Checked Out – Expression when the leader drives away from the rest of the field and will seem impossible to catch
Dicing – Close, exciting driving between 2 or more racers. Positions are exchanged frequently.
Pinched – When a race car on the inside squeezes an outside car by the outside wall, This will cause the outside car to slow down and follow.
Yellow Flag – Flag that signifies caution during a race. Usually resulting from a crash, spin, or debris on the track. Cars are to slow down and not to pass while the hazard is cleared from the track.
For more dirt racing terms visit www.onedirt.com and for the complete Dirt Racing 101 series visit TroyHerbst.Net