The roar of the racetrack at Wiscasset Speedway has echoed through the community for more than 50 years.
During that time, the track has become one of Maine’s most beloved and is one of the fastest tracks in the state.
As a local fixture, it’s home to a wide variety of racing as well as several community events. Here’s a guide to the speedway and what you should know.
There has been a push for legal sports betting in Maine recently but as of yet gambling on motorsports is not legal. There is hope the state could pass legislation to legalize sports betting this year.
Popular races at Wiscasset Speedway
The track at Wiscasset Speedway is a high-bank oval that’s 3/8 of a mile long. Maine racing legends like Ralph Nason, Mike Rowe, and Ricky Craven have competed as Wiscasset.
The track’s two biggest and arguably most popular races of the year are the Coastal 200 and Boss Hogg 150.
Coastal 200
Typically run in late May, the Coastal 200 is a six-tire race run based on late-model sportsman rules. The field has 28 cars, with 24 cars that qualify from heat races the day of the final and four via consolation and provisional entries. Heats are 12 laps each.
The race itself is a 200-lap competition with payouts to all 28 drivers. The prizes for the top three finishers are $5,000, $3,000, and $1,500, respectively.
Boss Hogg 150
Named after Maine Motorsports and Wiscasset Speedway Hall of Fame member Dave “Boss Hogg” St. Clair, this race is usually run in early September. There are typically three divisions that compete: pro stocks, trucks, and streets.
The top-three finishers earn $5,000, $3,000, and $1,500 in prize money, respectively.
What to do and see at Wiscasset Speedway
The track’s yearly schedule of events, which typically runs from spring to fall, is full of great races as well as community events. Here’s a list of some of the best events at Wiscasset Speedway.
Opening day
Taking off in late April, Opening Day signals the start of the racing season in Maine.
VIP seating opens at noon and gates for general admission open at 1 p.m. The green flag drops at 2 p.m. Opening Day races include:
- Pro stocks — a type of drag racing with a factory “hot rod”
- Streets — 2 different races: Strictly Streets and Super Street 100
- Thunder 4 Mini — an intermediate-level race meant for beginners seeking to improve their racing skills and use their own car without spending a lot of money.
- 4-cylinder pro —one of the more challenging races meant for serious and highly competitive drivers
Coastal Cruise-In and Fund Day
The Cruise-In is a highlight of the track’s yearly schedule. It includes a classic car show, a cornhole tournament hosted by Wicked Cornhole, live music, and food trucks.
MVRCA Summerfest
Hosted by the Maine Vintage Race Car Association (MVRCA), this summer event is one of the favorite events on the calendar. It includes:
- A vintage race cars show
- The Maine Vintage Mobile Museum
- Kids race car rides
- Family-style cookout
- And appearances by members of Maine’s motorsports hall of fame
Hall of Fame
While not an event on the calendar, per se, the track is home to its hall of fame that’s worth a visit for Maine race fans. The venue features photos and memorabilia from significant moments throughout the track’s history.
One wall of the facility is devoted to the hall’s members, which include Bob Hallee, Dave St. Clair, and Ken Seigers.
Tickets, where to park, how to get there
Tickets are available for purchase at the track and are non-refundable. In the event of a rain-out, your ticket serves as your rain check for the next scheduled race.
Parking is available on-site and is free. There are handicap spaces near the main gate. For those with mobility issues, the track offers golf-car shuttle rides upon request.
Wiscasset Speedway is located in Wiscasset on W. Alna Rd. about an hour outside of Portland. From Portland, take the 295 to the 1, then make a left on the 218 until you see the left turn for W Alna Rd.
From Bangor, take the 95 to SR 9/ME 27. Make a left on W. Alna Rd.
