OWENDALE, Mich. – Nestled in the thumb’s region of Michigan, about 50 miles east of Saginaw, the Silver Bullet Speedway in Owendale stands as a roaring testament to the spirit and history of dirt track racing. It’s not your average racetrack where that famous call to drivers is made – “start your engines.” Let’s take you on the road where it all started.
Once known as the Owendale Speedway, the historic track is the oldest operating dirt track in Michigan. What makes its story truly inspiring is the passion and dedication of two brothers, Nick and Matt Hoonhout. The track dates back to 1955, and since then it has experienced many changes including the purchase by Matt of Harrison Township and Nick of Clarkston in March 2013. In 2019, Nick stepped away from the track to choose a different path.
Every summer weekend, Matt makes the 80-mile journey to his beloved track, pouring sweat and heart into hosting electrifying races that bring thrill-seekers from near and far. Since its opening night on May 29, 2013, the Speedway has been transformed into a buzzing hub where the crowd has more than tripled.
The Silver Bullet Speedway isn’t only a track; it’s a historic landmark that has witnessed legends in the making. Since 1955, it has welcomed racing icons like Indy 500 winners A.J. Foyt and Parnelli Jones, who have raced fiercely on its dirt. Now under Hoonhout’s stewardship, the track is poised to spark a new golden era of dirt track racing in Michigan and beyond.
Hoonhout hasn’t reached the finish line yet. The checkered flag comes out Saturday nights at 7 p.m. with the thunder and dust of engines racing under the lights until the first weekend in September, offering not just racing but fun for all ages.
The Speedway offers free rustic camping and the welcoming freedom to bring coolers, making each race night a perfect summer outing with friends and family. A kids club is also on site.
Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for kids ages 6-14, and free for children 5 and under.
The calendar may say August, but there is still time to get to the speedway. On Aug. 9, the track is hosting the Great Lakes Winged Super Sprints. Fan appreciation night is Aug. 23 and All-American Truck Series with spectator drags and shopping cart races on Aug. 30. Plus, on Aug. 29, AMA Flat Track Motorcycle races take place under the Friday night lights. It all comes down to Sept. 6 - Championship night and Great Lakes Traditional Sprints #3.
If you have a weekend open on your calendar, Matt hopes you can come out and experience the speed, the history, and the community spirit that make the Silver Bullet Speedway a shining jewel of Michigan racing.