The 5 Must-See Races & Untold History Of Star Speedway, Epping, NH (2025 Season)
The Star Speedway in Epping, New Hampshire, remains one of New England’s most beloved and challenging short-track ovals, and the 2025 season is shaping up to be one of its most anticipated in recent memory. This quarter-mile, semi-banked asphalt bullring is not just a racetrack; it is a vital piece of the region's motorsports heritage, steeped in decades of intense competition, legendary drivers, and the dedicated stewardship of the Webber family. With a fresh calendar of events just released, fans are already marking their calendars for the biggest races of the year, from the traditional season opener to major touring division clashes.
The latest updates for the 2025 season confirm that Star Speedway will continue its tradition of hosting a diverse range of divisions, ensuring high-octane action for every type of racing enthusiast. From the powerful Tour-type Modifieds to the grassroots excitement of the Grocery Getters, the Epping oval promises a thrilling experience that honors its past while looking toward a competitive future.
The Legacy of the Bullring: Star Speedway Biography & Key Entities
Star Speedway’s deep roots in the New England racing community have cemented its status as a true "bullring," a term of endearment for short, highly competitive tracks. Its history is defined by a passionate founder, a long-term dedicated ownership family, and a roster of drivers whose names are etched into the track's record books.
- Opening Date: 1966
- Founder: Charlie Elliot
- Original Name: All-Star Speedway (also known by this name historically)
- Track Type: Quarter-mile (0.25 mi) semi-banked asphalt oval
- Location: Epping, New Hampshire
- Current Ownership/Management: The Webber Family (Bobby Webber Jr. is the current owner, following his father, Bob Webber Sr., who purchased the track in the early 1980s)
- Key Racing Divisions: Tour-type Modifieds, Supermodifieds, Late Models, Street Stocks, Cruisers, Trucks, Six Shooters, Dwarf's, Grocery Getters
- Affiliation: Historically hosted American-Canadian Tour (ACT) and Pro All Stars Series (PASS) events. Currently under NASCAR sanction.
Legendary Drivers and Record Holders
The track has witnessed countless battles, giving rise to many regional icons. The list of legendary drivers who have competed here is long, but a few stand out, particularly in the prestigious annual Star Classic Supermodified race.
- "Dynamite" Ollie Silva: A Supermodified and Modified standout who won features across multiple decades and took the Star Classic multiple times (1969-1971).
- Russ Wood: Holds the record for the most Star Classic victories, with seven wins.
- Bentley Warren: A six-time winner of the Star Classic, second only to Russ Wood.
- Chris Perley: A five-time winner of the Supermodified Star Classic.
- Other Notable Competitors: Doug Henderson, Dick Batchelder, Eddie Witkum Jr., and Jim Chaney regularly did battle in weekly and special events.
The 2025 Star Speedway Schedule: 5 Marquee Events
The 2025 racing calendar is packed with special events that draw competitors and fans from across the New England short track racing community. These are the five biggest dates you need to know, highlighting the track's commitment to both weekly grassroots racing and major touring divisions.
1. The Annual Bunny Brawl Season Opener
The traditional start to the season, the Bunny Brawl, is a must-attend event for local racing enthusiasts. Scheduled for Saturday, April 26th, it serves as the official kickoff for the weekly racing series.
This event is famous for its packed schedule, featuring the most eclectic mix of divisions, including Cruisers, Trucks, Six Shooters, Dwarf's, Grocery Getters, and a thrilling 4-Cylinder Enduro race. It's a true test of winter preparation and a celebration of the return of motorsports to Epping, NH.
2. PASS Super Late Model (SLM) Challenge
The Pro All Stars Series (PASS) Super Late Models bring some of the most competitive asphalt racing to the Northeast, and their stop at Star Speedway is a significant event. Scheduled for Sunday, June 15th, this race will test the limits of the powerful SLM cars on the tight quarter-mile oval.
The race attracts both regional stars and local heroes, providing a high-stakes showdown that is critical for the PASS championship standings. The close-quarters action of Super Late Models on a short track is legendary for producing drama and excitement.
3. The RaceChoice.com 125
A key date for the Tour-Type Modifieds, the RaceChoice.com 125 is set for Saturday, August 2nd, 2025. The Modifieds are the signature division at Star Speedway, known for their open-wheel design and incredible speed, making them a spectacle on the tight confines of the Epping track.
This event draws top Modified talent seeking a major win and is a crucial mid-season battle that often sets the tone for the rest of the year. The 125-lap distance ensures a grueling test of driver skill, tire management, and pit strategy.
4. The New England Dwarf Car Series
Scheduled for Sunday, September 14th, the New England Dwarf Car Series brings a unique brand of racing to Star. These miniature stock cars are highly competitive and offer some of the closest side-by-side action seen all season.
The Dwarf Cars are a fan favorite, showcasing incredible car control and a commitment to affordable, fun racing, which perfectly aligns with Star Speedway’s grassroots spirit. This late-season event is part of a larger regional tour, adding extra prestige for the competitors.
5. The Milton CAT ACT Coastal Clash 150
While the exact 2025 date may vary, the American-Canadian Tour (ACT) Coastal Clash 150 is a major event that has recently crowned winners like Brandon Barker. This Late Model race is one of the most prestigious events on the calendar, attracting the best Late Model drivers from across New England and Canada.
The event is known for its intense finishes, with home-trackers like Jimmy Renfrew Jr. often battling touring veterans for the coveted trophy. The 150-lap distance is a grueling marathon that tests the endurance of both car and driver on the abrasive asphalt.
The Heart of the Community: The Webber Family’s Dedication
The track's longevity and success are intrinsically linked to the Webber family. Bob Webber Sr. purchased the track in the early 1980s, ushering in an era of stability and growth. Today, his son, Bobby Webber Jr., continues the tradition, maintaining the track's reputation as "The Place To Race."
The Webber family’s commitment extends beyond just managing the facility; they are deeply invested in the local racing community, ensuring that weekly divisions thrive and that the track remains accessible to both up-and-coming drivers and seasoned veterans. This hands-on management style is a hallmark of New England short-track culture, fostering a loyal fanbase and a tight-knit community of racers.
Star Speedway's role in developing regional talent is undeniable. Many drivers who have gone on to success in larger series cut their teeth on the challenging Epping oval, learning the critical skills of short-track racing—car control, patience, and the art of the bump-and-run. The track’s continued focus on diverse divisions, from the powerful Supermodifieds to the entry-level Grocery Getters, ensures that the future of New England motorsports remains bright and competitive.
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