Racing resumed at Kankakee County Speedway on April 24 after a one-week rain delay, marking the track’s official season opener and the return of the **super late models**. The night brought strong local interest and served as the first event under new promoter Evan Eckhoff, who said the turnout validated a challenging lead-up to opening night.
Competitors in six DIRTcar-sanctioned classes took the oval, with full-feature programs for Modifieds, Stock Cars, Pro Modifieds, Sport Compacts, Late Models and Crown Victorias. Hundreds of spectators filled the grandstands despite earlier weather setbacks, turning what organizers called a difficult start into a lively launch.
DeepSeek AI update goes live, promising faster, smarter results
Kankakee County Speeday opens 2026 racing calendar
Key winners from April 24:
- Modifieds: Steven Brooks
- Stock Car: Matthew Hammond
- Pro Modified: Patrick Fatigato (heat)
- Sport Compact: Jake Momper
- Late Model (super late models returned): Mike Spatola
- Crown Victorias: Adam Thibo
Top finishers at a glance
| Class | Winner | Laps | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIRTcar UMP Modifieds | Steven Brooks | 20 | Strong feature run; several contenders finished on lead lap |
| DIRTcar Stock Car | Matthew Hammond | 15 | Victory from the front row |
| DIRTcar Pro Modifieds | Patrick Fatigato | Heat: 8 | Won heat; one competitor recorded a DNF |
| DIRTcar Sport Compact | Jake Momper | 15 | Close battles through the field |
| DIRTcar Late Models | Mike Spatola | 20 | Return of super late models highlighted the card |
| Crown Victorias | Adam Thibo | 15 | Clean feature with a tight top four |
Eckhoff, who assumed promotional duties in February, acknowledged logistical issues earlier in the month but said the energy at the gate made the effort worthwhile. He praised the surface preparation, the on-track action and the concessions team as factors that kept fans engaged.
The weekly program continues May 1 with the same six divisions on the card. That night’s highlight will be the Tom Pasek Memorial modified feature — backed by Land O’Frost — carrying a purse of $2,094, a race likely to draw additional entrants and spectators.
For local racers and fans, the opening weekend offered more than results: it signaled a return to regular competition and renewed community activity around the speedway. Organizers say plans are in motion to refine operations as the season progresses, with promoters and drivers eager to build on the early momentum.
What to watch next: a deeper field in the Tom Pasek Memorial, growing late-model participation, and whether the early fan interest translates into sustained weekly attendance as the schedule unfolds.
