Brainerd International Raceway | Brainerd

Brainerd International Raceway (BIR) is the premier motorsports facility in the Upper Midwest, located near Brainerd, Minnesota. Established in 1968, it has grown into a vast, multi-faceted racing complex spanning over 800 acres that caters to a wide variety of automotive sports, including drag racing, road racing, drifting, and more. BIR is well-known for its state-of-the-art tracks, rich racing history, and major motorsport events, making it a central hub for racing enthusiasts in the region.

History and Evolution

Brainerd International Raceway originally opened as Donnybrooke Speedway in July 1968, marking the arrival of professional road racing in central Minnesota. It quickly became a popular venue for the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), hosting numerous amateur and professional road racing events. The track’s early prominence was cemented by major events such as the NHRA Top Fuel Dragster races and Can-Am series races during the 1970s.

In 1973, the track was purchased by Jerry Hansen, a noted racer and businessman, who renamed it Brainerd International Raceway. Under Hansen’s ownership, the facility expanded significantly, improving its infrastructure and diversifying its racing offerings to include drag racing, road course events, and drifting competitions. This transformation helped BIR grow into a nationally recognized motorsports destination.

Facilities and Track Layouts

BIR boasts multiple distinct tracks designed to accommodate various forms of racing:

Donnybrooke Road Course: This is the original road course, a 3.1-mile, 10-turn circuit that features a mix of sweeping curves and technical sections. It is used primarily for sports car and motorcycle racing events and is respected for its challenging layout that tests driver skill and vehicle handling.

Competition Road Course: A newer 2.5-mile, 13-turn configuration that is highly versatile and can be used simultaneously with the drag strip, allowing multiple events to occur concurrently. It offers a modern racing experience with a combination of high-speed straights and technical corners suitable for a wide range of motorsport disciplines.

Quarter-Mile Drag Strip: BIR’s drag strip is nationally renowned for its fast surface and professional-grade facilities. It regularly hosts NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) events, including the prestigious NHRA Lucas Oil Nationals. The drag strip has been the site of record-breaking performances, including Tony Schumacher’s world-class Top Fuel dragster run reaching 337.58 mph in 2005, one of the fastest quarter-mile times recorded.

Major Events and Racing Series

Brainerd International Raceway hosts numerous high-profile events annually, drawing professional drivers and passionate fans from across the country:

NHRA Lucas Oil Nationals: This is one of the marquee events on the NHRA drag racing calendar, held every August. It features top-tier professional drag racers competing in multiple categories including Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, and Pro Stock Motorcycle.

PowerCruise 2.0: A popular event combining drifting competitions, track time for various car classes, and a social car culture gathering. It caters to enthusiasts of street cars, race cars, and drifting.

Lakes Jam: A unique festival blending live music with motorsports entertainment, Lakes Jam provides a multi-day experience featuring concerts alongside races and automotive displays.

Besides these, BIR regularly hosts club racing, track days, drift events, and amateur competitions, making it accessible to a broad spectrum of racers.

Notable Achievements and Records

BIR has seen many legendary drivers and record-setting performances:

Tony Schumacher, an NHRA Top Fuel drag racer, set the world record for the fastest quarter-mile at BIR in 2005, reaching 337.58 mph.

John Force, one of drag racing’s most celebrated drivers, has secured 11 victories at BIR, cementing his dominance on the drag strip.

Kenny Bernstein, another iconic figure in drag racing, recorded five wins at the raceway.

The track’s reputation for speed and competitive racing has made it a testing ground for automotive innovation and driver skill.

Facilities and Visitor Experience

BIR offers extensive facilities for both participants and spectators:

Multiple grandstands and viewing areas provide excellent sightlines of the tracks and pit areas.

Professional-grade pit lanes and garages support teams during major events.

Amenities include food vendors, merchandise shops, and ample parking.

The raceway also hosts corporate events, driving schools, and private rentals.

The venue is designed to accommodate large crowds while ensuring safety and comfort, making it ideal for family outings or enthusiast gatherings.

Location and Access

Brainerd International Raceway is located at 5523 Birchdale Road, just outside Brainerd, Minnesota. Its location is accessible from major highways, making it convenient for visitors traveling from the Twin Cities and other parts of Minnesota and the Midwest.

The raceway operates year-round with a schedule that adapts to the seasonal racing calendar, including snowmobile racing in winter months.

Summary

Brainerd International Raceway stands as Minnesota’s premier motorsports complex, renowned for its rich history, versatile tracks, and major racing events. It offers world-class facilities for drag racing, road racing, and drifting, attracting top professional drivers and grassroots racers alike. With a legacy stretching back over five decades, BIR continues to play a pivotal role in the Upper Midwest’s motorsports culture, providing thrilling racing experiences for competitors and spectators in a professional and fan-friendly environment.