Motorsports memories were made at the track for 25 years. Michelle Valles reports for Today in LA on Wednesday Oct. 30, 2024.
The checkered flag is in sight for Irwindale Speedway after 25 years of NASCAR races, demolition derbies, drag racing, and other events at the San Gabriel Valley motorsports landmark.
The speedway and dragstrip about 20 miles east of downtown Los Angeles will close at the end of the 2024 season with a farewell event scheduled for Dec. 21, according to a statement posted Tuesday.
"Irwindale has been more than just a track. It's been a home and gathering place for racing enthusiasts worldwide," said Tim Huddleston, President of Irwindale Speedway & Event Center Inc. "On behalf of my wife Lisa and our partners Bob and Maureen Bruncati, we extend heartfelt thanks to our fans, racers, sponsors, and the City of Irwindale for their unwavering support over the past 25 years. We’re grateful for every moment and memory we’ve shared as a community."
The track and its 63-acres of land were purchased by IDS Real Estate Group in 2022, when plans for an industrial business park were introduced for the area south of the 210 Freeway just west of the 605 Freeway.
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“The Irwindale Speedway has been more than just a racetrack; it has been a part of our community’s identity,” said Mayor Albert F. Ambriz. “We are grateful for the memories created here and the passion the fans and racers have shown over the years.”
The city said it "remains committed to ensuring future uses of the land are community-oriented projects that benefit the residents of Irwindale."of Irwindale
There are several events on the remaining 2024 calendar that will go on as planned. They include Thursday Night Thunder events, Night of Destruction on Nov. 2, Nitro Revival on Nov. 8-9, and SevenStock 26 on Nov. 16.
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Fans will have one last opportunity to race down the dragstrip Dec. 5 with the last Thursday Night Thunder. the Mooneyes Christmas Party is set for Dec. 7.
The Irwindale Speedway Farewell Extravaganza on Dec. 21 will feature NASCAR short-track races, Night of Destruction events, a drift invitational and the ARCA Menards Series West.
Tickets for the Farewell Extravaganza will be on sale Nov. 8.
