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Kurt Vonder Haar, marketing director for Highland Speedway, recently appeared on the Dirty Right Rear Podcast, brought to you as always by The Barn, to discuss the track’s growth, challenges, and upcoming marquee events. A seasoned marketing expert with a background in corporate event planning, Kurt has helped transform Highland Speedway into one of the top short tracks in the region by growing sponsorships from 12 to 75 and expanding its digital reach through social media and TikTok.
Kurt highlighted the Speedway’s recent success in hosting 103 cars across multiple classes and proudly reflected on Highland welcoming the World of Outlaws for the first time in 2024. He credited this growth to strong community support, a family-friendly atmosphere, and initiatives like the Junior Fan Club and kid-focused pit activities. Despite weather setbacks and rainouts that have affected many tracks this season, Kurt and the Highland race committee have doubled down on their commitment to delivering quality racing and memorable fan experiences.
All attention is now on the highly anticipated World of Outlaws “Beat the Heat 40” event coming up Wednesday, August 13th at Highland Speedway in Highland, Illinois. The event will feature the World of Outlaws Late Model Series, DIRTcar Late Models, and DIRTcar UMP Modifieds, including a $2,500 payout for Modifieds. Last year’s event drew fans from 24 states, and this year’s edition is expected to be even bigger. The grandstand gates open at 4:30 PM, hot laps begin at 6:30 PM, and a full night of racing will follow.
Kurt is also organizing special features for fans, including a kids’ autograph session, a VIP tent, and contingency plans for weather. Reserved seating is selling quickly, but general admission tickets will still be available at the gate. Prices include $40 for adults, $10 for kids 12 and under, $50 for reserved seats, and $75 for box seats. Full-service and primitive camping options are also available.
Looking ahead, Kurt is focused on increasing payouts, improving safety with new fencing in the backstretch, and exploring options to add seating in turns three and four or build premium viewing suites. His ultimate goal is to turn Highland’s World of Outlaws stop into a crown jewel event in the dirt racing world. Through vision, hard work, and hometown pride, Kurt Vonder Haar continues to shape Highland Speedway into a national-caliber racing destination.
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This episode is sponsored by www.betterhelp.com/TheBarn and brought to you as always by The Barn Media Group.
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