Mount Pleasant Speedway hosts dirt racing every Friday through Sept. 2

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Thunderous roars of engines can be heard throughout the northern side of Mount Pleasant every Friday.

The Mount Pleasant Speedway, 4658 E. River Road, hosts dirt racing action as drivers from all over Michigan compete on the three-eighths mile track for the points lead in the 2011 season. The races, separated by the type of car, begin each night at 7:45.

The action at the speedway is continuous, and every race is immediately followed by another. There are some delays, however, as cars frequently find their way off the track when drivers attempt to drift around turns or when collisions occur.

Midland street stock driver Tom Hodges Jr. has raced at the speedway for 11 years. Hodges, who came in second for total points last year, has seen improvements in its quality in recent years.

“I like coming up here to race. The track really improved a few years ago,” Hodges Jr. said. “The track used to have a lot of holes and could get very tacky.”

Hundreds of fans attend the races every week, but their cheers are easily drowned out by the growls of the engines. Even the loudspeaker is sometimes silenced by the track’s most heated action.

Midland fan Dave Willett attends a few nights every season with his wife and grandchildren. Willett said the races can provide entertainment for the whole family.

“I come out here with my family for around three nights a season,” Willett said. “My grandchildren love it.”

Remus Automotive Stock Mini driver Bob Wright Jr., a first-year driver, enjoys racing at the Mount Pleasant Speedway as a rookie.

“It’s all about just going out and having fun,” Wright Jr. said. “The track and the fans are great beginner entertainment.”

Races will continue every Friday until September 2, where the final points leaders will be determined.