Introduction:
Exploring abandoned race tracks is a fascinating journey into the past, offering a glimpse into the golden age of motorsport. The thrill of driving on historic tracks like Wilmot Hills Road Racing Course, Lynndale Farms Road Racing Course, and Meadowdale International Raceway in a modern car allows us to immerse ourselves in the experiences of the drivers who once competed on these tracks. This article will delve into the history and present-day condition of these ghost tracks, capturing the essence of an era when racing was raw and untamed.
Lynndale Farms Road Racing Course: 1964-1968
Lynndale Farms, located 25 miles west of Milwaukee, now exists as a residential subdivision that retains the outline of the original 2.5-mile road course. Despite its transformation, remnants of the track can still be seen in the roads of the subdivision. The esses, front straight, and turns of the original course provide a nostalgic connection to the past when racers like Chuck Reupert zoomed through its curves. Modern visitors like the author are able to experience a sense of the track’s history through vintage photos and the layout of the neighborhood.
Meadowdale International Raceway: 1958-1969
Meadowdale International Raceway, located northwest of Chicago, was a legendary 3.27-mile course known for its main straight nearly a mile long and the iconic Monza Wall. While parts of the original tarmac still exist, the track has been preserved as a hiking and biking trail in the Raceway Hills Forest Preserve. The efforts of the Midwest Racing Preservation Association aim to keep the memory of Meadowdale alive through events and preserving the original silo. Visitors can walk the trail and appreciate the track’s legacy while enjoying the serene surroundings of the forest preserve.
Wilmot Hills Road Racing Course: 1953-1967
Wilmot Hills Road Racing Course, still partially intact, provides a unique opportunity to drive on a vintage track. The challenging turns, elevation changes, and remnants of the old course offer a glimpse into the past when racers like Joseph B Swanson Jr navigated its curves at high speeds. While the track’s racing days are over, the nostalgia of its glory days lives on through the memories of those who once raced there. The author’s experience of driving a modern Porsche on the track highlights the evolution of racing technology while honoring the legacy of the past.
Conclusion
Exploring abandoned race tracks like Wilmot Hills, Lynndale Farms, and Meadowdale offers a fascinating insight into the history of motorsport and the legacy of legendary tracks. The preservation efforts of organizations and the memories shared by individuals who raced on these tracks keep the spirit of these ghost tracks alive. Driving modern cars on these historic circuits allows us to pay homage to the past while experiencing the thrills of racing on tracks that have stood the test of time. As we look to the future of racing, it’s essential to remember and honor the heritage of these abandoned tracks before they fade into obscurity.