BENNETT MEMORIAL RACE

We're thrilled to announce that the Bennett Memorial Race is now officially a nonprofit 501 (C) organization. This significant step marks a new chapter in the journey of our beloved event and sets the stage for even greater things to come. As we transition to nonprofit status, our commitment to honoring both Tom and Diane's memory and promoting the racing community remains unwavering. With this new designation, we're empowered to further our mission, expand our reach, and make an even bigger impact on the racing community.

 Lincoln Summer Nationals to Feature Bennett Memorial Race on Sunday, June 21

LINCOLN, IL – Lincoln Speedway is proud to announce that the 2026 DIRTcar Summer Nationals event on Sunday, June 21 will be contested as the Bennett Memorial Race, honoring the legacy of Tom and Diane Bennett. The marquee evening will showcase the stars and cars of the DIRTcar Super Late Models, Summit Modified Nationals, and Lincoln’s Crown Vic division.

The Bennett Memorial Race is held in memory of Tom and Diane Bennett, long-time and deeply respected figures in the Central Illinois racing community. Tom and Diane’s love for racing and their dedication to the sport continue to inspire this event year after year. 2026 will mark the eighth year of the Bennett Memorial Race, a program that has become a cornerstone of the region’s short track landscape.

Fans and teams will notice an expanded awards platform for the upcoming edition. Lap sponsors will be available for all three classes competing that night, with additional accolades such as fast qualifier, hard charger, and other specialty awards to be announced in the coming weeks. Over the past seven years, more than $100,000 has been raised, and every dollar has been given back to the local racing community—totaling over $100,000 reinvested into racers, facilities, and supporters who carry on the Bennett spirit.

This event exists because of the drivers, fans, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who believe in honoring the Bennett legacy. The Bennett Memorial Race would like to sincerely thank each and every person who has donated, supported, and stood behind this event over the past seven years. You have made this race what it is today. We are proud of what has been built together and are looking forward to making year eight the best one yet. Thank you for helping us continue the legacy of Tom and Diane Bennett.

Lincoln Speedway, promoted by Track Enterprises with Bob Sargent and Adam Mackey, is located at the Logan County Fairgrounds in Lincoln, Illinois. The facility is a ¼-mile dirt oval known for close racing and a family-friendly atmosphere. The quarter-mile has hosted everything from national touring Super Late Models and Sprint Cars to weekly divisions such as Modifieds, Pro Late Models, MARA Midgets, and Crown Vics, making it a true heartbeat of Central Illinois motorsports.

The full 2026 Lincoln Speedway schedule will be officially unveiled this coming weekend at the Midwest Speed Expo, set for Saturday–Sunday, January 10-11 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, IL. The Expo release will detail all major events, weekly programs, and special promotions planned for the historic Logan County venue.

Additional information regarding lap sponsorship opportunities, contingency awards, and event partnerships for the Bennett Memorial Race will be published soon at Lincoln Speedway and Bennett Memorial Race social channels.

Lincoln Speedway Summer Nationals / Bennett Memorial – Sunday, June 21, 2026

Featuring:
• DIRTcar Summer National Super Late Models
• Summit Modified Nationals
• Crown Vics

Please join us in honoring the Bennett legacy on the Logan County Fairgrounds quarter mile.