Why are Indiana tracks so short?
 

Is there a historic reason for why IN tracks are generally shorter than neighboring states to the east and maybe south? Does it have to do with the fact that IN tracks are more sprint/midget focused?

Would appreciate some history on this from someone with more racing history knowledge than me.

Thanks

Re: Why are Indiana tracks so short?
 

Lawrenceburg and Bloomington were once big half miles and a shorter track was built using the common front straight on both. Both Half Miles were removed. Bloomingtons turn four hillside at the back of the property shows the outline of the old turn 4. Burg, The one tree next to the building at the back of the pits in turn four end used to have some fencing on it. The old Half mile track served as the exit road until the new 3/8ths was built.

Montpelier's old turn three and four are still out there at the end of the property. Very clearly seen.

The answer is. Im unsure. PA seems to be a exception with mostly bigger tracks. I gotta wonder if it isn't due to Big Block Mods being the dominant class. (At least it was till the 90s)

There are several reasons most dirt tracks in IN are 1/4 mile and not longer. 1/4 mile tracks are more popular with competitors because they are easier on engines and speeds are lower. From an ownership standpoint, 1/4 miles attract more competitors (more back gate $) 1/4 miles take up less property, so less property taxes to pay, 1/4 miles take takes less time, and money to maintain and prepare for race nights, so lower operating expenses, among many other reasons. The fact of the matter is that for most of the weekly attending fans, they wouldn’t care whether the track was a 1/4, a 3/8, or a 1/2 mile. They are there to see their favorite driver(s) race and do well against a full field of competitors.