Thursday, March 28, 2024

Vienna to host first ‘Mud Race in the Ball Park’ September 5

“It’s speed.”

That’s how promoter Hugh Crockarell of 4WD Race Promotions described the upcoming ‘First Annual Mud Race in the Ball Park’ that will take place Saturday, September 5, at 7 p.m. in the Vienna Ball Park.

cyclone mudraceRacers will gather from all over to battle to see who has the fastest 4-wheel drive truck, and who is the better driver. Racers travel from as far away as Alabama and Michigan to compete in these types events.

“If they were doing it for the money they’d just stay home,” Crockarell declared. “They do it because they love it.”

Spectators will see specially outfitted, modified, stock and super-sport 4-wheel drive trucks blazing around a mud track vying for the fastest time. “The crowd will see vehicles go from a dead stop in mud eight-to-ten inches deep, to traveling 100 feet in one-point-seven seconds,” Crockarell explained.

“This isn’t a mud bog, it’s a race,” he added.

Crockarell also talked about how the race is a family event. He prefers to start off each race with a prayer and the National Anthem. No alcoholic beverages or coolers will be allowed at the event.

The long-time veteran says he’s seen kids that started showing an interest around the ages of seven and eight that are now climbing into their family’s trucks and racing them.

While organizing the race Crockarell had high praises for the City of Vienna. “Vienna has been so nice and easy to work with. They have been absolutely gracious in every way.”

“We are hoping to make this an annual event,” said Vienna City Clerk Aleatha Wright. “We’d like to make it bigger and better every year.”

The City Clerk also wants to remind everyone to bring his or her own lawn chairs, as bleacher seating will be limited.

While Vienna City Council members have been the spearhead of the event, a number of local businesses are sponsoring the event to help make it possible.

Prior to the race, three of the super-modified trucks will be at Vienna City Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for photographs. Cyclone, Lethal Threat, and Left Behind will all be staged so that spectators can get a look at the trucks before they are slinging mud as they barrel their way down the track.

General and driver admission is $7 per person payable at the gate. Pit passes are $12. Children under age three are free.

Concessions will be available during the event.

The Vienna Ball Park is located just south of Illinois Route 146, on the west side of town. .

To register in the local stock class, be sure to get to the ballpark early. Registration will begin at 5 p.m. Racing starts at 7 p.m.