Blackhawk Farms Raceway: Your Guide To Track Days & Events
Are you a sport bike enthusiast looking for the ultimate track day experience? Blackhawk Farms Raceway in South Beloit, Illinois, offers a dynamic and accessible environment for riders of all skill levels, providing a thrilling and safe venue to push your limits and enjoy the freedom of the open track.
Whether you're a seasoned veteran seeking to hone your skills or a newcomer eager to experience the thrill of the circuit, Blackhawk Farms caters to your needs. With a variety of track time options tailored to individual preferences, it's a place where every rider can find their ideal challenge. To get specifics regarding upcoming events and schedules, be sure to check the online Blackhawk Farms schedule.
Blackhawk Farms is a track that embraces both seasoned riders and newcomers to the sport. The "motovid.com all levels track day program" is a good example of the raceway's inclusive approach. This program, which runs at Blackhawk Farms Raceway, offers four distinct levels, meticulously crafted to match your experience level, these include Blue (advance), Green (intermediate1), Orange (intermediate2), and Yellow (novice). Every hour, each group takes to the track with dedicated corner workers, thus creating a secure atmosphere where riders of all abilities can participate in an environment that is optimized for skill development and enjoyment. This careful organization promotes a supportive environment where riders can gradually enhance their skills, learn from others, and enjoy the pure exhilaration of racing.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Track Name | Blackhawk Farms Raceway |
| Location | 15538 Prairie Road, South Beloit, Illinois 61080 |
| Circuit Length | 1.95 miles |
| Number of Turns | 7 |
| Established | 1967 |
| Key Events | SCCA Mark Amenda Memorial Majors Race Weekend, Corvette Oktoberfest |
| Accessibility | Located between Chicago and Milwaukee, minutes from Interstate 90 |
| Other Activities | Club, professional, and spectator events; races for automobiles, karts, motorcycles; vintage, solo events |
| Track Surface | Private circuit |
| Climate Considerations | Colder than the rest of Illinois, with milder summers and harsher winters; average of 116 days of precipitation annually |
| Website Link | Blackhawk Farms Raceway Official Website |
For those participating in track days, inquiries about reserving garages or overhead space are common. While precise details can change depending on the event, contacting Blackhawk Farms directly or referring to the specific event guidelines is always the best course of action. As for staying informed during the races, announcements are crucial for safety and awareness. In addition to the public address system, track announcements are broadcast on 88.9 FM, offering an alternative way to stay up-to-date on track activity.
Blackhawk Farms Raceway has been a cornerstone of motorsports for almost half a century. Since its establishment, it has become a favorite location for both local and national racing organizations. Despite never having hosted any of the most elite races, the circuit has still managed to attract some very famous drivers, with many negotiating the turns at different stages of their careers. The course has served as a proving ground for some of racing's most legendary names. Various members of the Andretti family, Boris Said, Paul Newman, and Stirling Moss are just a few of the notable figures who have graced Blackhawk Farms.
Safety is always a top priority. All participants are required to come prepared with their own approved helmets. For those who may not have their own, a limited number of helmets are available to rent from Blackhawk Farms Raceway. This policy ensures that all participants are equipped with the essential safety gear necessary to protect themselves while on the track.
The track's location is another key feature. Blackhawk Farms is a 1.95-mile, 7-turn private circuit racetrack. It is located in South Beloit, Illinois, on 216 acres. It's situated on the border between Wisconsin and Illinois, conveniently located within 90 miles of two major metropolitan areas: Chicago and Milwaukee. Its close proximity to Interstate 90 makes it easily accessible for racers and spectators alike, ensuring a smooth journey to the track.
Looking ahead, Blackhawk Farms Raceway is organizing a Test & Tune day for racecars on Friday, May 2, 2025. This is a great opportunity for drivers to prepare and fine-tune their vehicles before the SCCA Mark Amenda Memorial Majors Race Weekend. Registration for this event will open at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 1, 2025, and will reopen at 7:00 a.m. on the day of the event, Friday, May 2, 2025. These test days enable racers to make the most of the facilities and prepare themselves for the demanding race weekend ahead.
The history of Blackhawk Farms is deeply rooted in the area's motorsports heritage. Established in 1967, it came into existence around a decade after the famed Road America. This historical context underscores the track's enduring appeal and its significance in the region's racing community. The track's longevity is a testament to its well-maintained facilities, the passion of the racing community, and its ability to offer an exciting and safe racing environment.
For those who've been to Blackhawk Farms Raceway, or for those eager to experience it for the first time, the track offers a wealth of experiences. The site has gained a strong following on social media, amassing nearly 10,000 likes on platforms and garnering thousands of visits. The track provides an environment where enthusiasts gather to share their enthusiasm for racing, network with other racers, and take part in the electrifying racing atmosphere.
The facility's address is 15538 Prairie Road, South Beloit, Illinois 61080. This location is a central hub for all activities, making it easy to find and accessible for attendees.
Beyond the standard racing events, Blackhawk Farms offers special events to add diversity to its schedule. The BFR Corvette Oktoberfest Track Day is a good example. This annual event, held on Saturday, October 26th, brings together Corvette enthusiasts to participate in a track day with various groups, accommodating drivers of different abilities, from novice to experienced. These special events not only add excitement to the racing calendar but also create a sense of community among racing enthusiasts.
The track's significance in the region is undeniable. While primarily known for its racing events, Blackhawk Farms also welcomes club, professional, and spectator events. The track sees almost constant activity, with events scheduled nearly every weekend from May through October. Its diverse calendar highlights the track's dedication to the sport and its ability to draw a variety of participants. Aside from the SCCA and Midwestern Council sports car races, the track welcomes other automobiles, karts, motorcycles, and vintage racing. It also holds solo events.
Climate considerations are also a factor in racing at Blackhawk Farms. South Beloit experiences colder weather than much of Illinois, with milder summers and harsher winters. The area averages 116 days of precipitation a year, which adds to the complexity of track conditions and racer preparations, which is why racers are careful to adapt their strategies based on the season.
For anyone interested in exploring the circuit, there are numerous resources available. Videos and links to helpful information and data about the track are readily available. One example is taking a lap around Blackhawk Farms Raceway with Andy of ASM, which provides a good perspective of the course, its layout, and the thrill of racing it.
The continued growth of Blackhawk Farms as a motorsports destination is a result of its versatility, safety, and dynamic programs that appeal to drivers of all skill levels. With its prime location, varied event schedule, and a culture that promotes community, Blackhawk Farms Raceway is poised to remain a major destination for racing enthusiasts in the coming years. To stay updated and learn more, visit Blackhawk Farms at 15538 Prairie Road, South Beloit, Illinois 61080.
For those who are interested in creating tracks for racing simulations like Assetto Corsa, the technical information is still evolving. Converting track data from platforms such as Race Track Builder requires specific expertise. While information on converting tracks for Assetto Corsa is limited, the possibility of adapting tracks like Blackhawk Farms remains, thus making it more available to virtual racers.
