Thunderbird Raceway: Expanding Racing Horizons and Community Engagement

Get ready for more action! Thunderbird Raceway, a dirt track gem in northern Muskegon County, is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season. Owner Heidi Morell has big plans to rev up the racetrack experience, not just for racers but for the entire community.

More Than Just Racing: A Community Hub

Morell’s vision extends beyond the roar of engines. She’s seeking approval to host a variety of community events, turning Thunderbird Raceway into a vibrant entertainment venue. Imagine flea markets bustling with local vendors, a concert series showcasing regional talent, and other engaging activities for all ages.

“It isn’t just about Joe Blow on the racetrack driving in circles – it’s about everyone getting involved,” Morell said. “We have so many families that come here. We want to make it a good experience for everybody.”

Expansion Plans: What’s on the Horizon?

• More Racing Events: Increasing the number of racing events from 22 to 25 per season.
• Extended Hours: Pushing racing hours to 11:45 p.m. to allow for more flexibility.
• Community Sundays: Introducing Sunday events like concerts and flea markets, ending by 8 p.m.

A Family Affair: Racing for All Ages

Thunderbird Raceway caters to a wide range of racers, from seasoned adults to aspiring young drivers starting at age 6. With seven different racing classes, there’s a place for everyone to compete and learn. Weekly events draw an impressive crowd, with 130 to 140 cars battling it out on the dirt track and 500 to 1,000 attendees cheering them on.

Investing in the Future of Racing

Morell is also passionate about nurturing the next generation of racers. She plans to use Sundays to teach young drivers essential car maintenance skills, empowering them to take ownership of their machines and become more independent.

“Where to check their oil and motor, check the air in their tires, just teach them more about their car so they’re not that dependent on their parents,” Morell said. “Parents don’t have time to do maintenance on these cars.”

Mark Your Calendars: The Season Ahead

Don’t miss out on the excitement! The season kicks off with practice on April 19, followed by the season opener racing event on April 26. Head over to the Thunderbird Raceway Facebook page for the latest event information.

A Landmark Reborn

Thunderbird Raceway has a rich history, dating back to 1958. After a period of closure, it reopened in 2016, and the COVID-19 pandemic brought a surge of new drivers looking for outdoor entertainment. The raceway has become a landmark in the community

“The raceway’s been a part of the community dating back decades and our township master plan considers it to be sort of a landmark within the community,” said Stephen Kerr, zoning administrator for Dalton Township.