Riverside City History
Auto Racing

Without a doubt, the "fastest" period in Riverside's history took place on the southeastern edge of the community where for 37 years the Riverside Race Stadium drew attention from throughout the region and helped start nationally famous careers. Riverside Race Stadium began with a one-half mile dirt track in June of 1951 - just a short time before the city of Riverside was incorporated. The first race was held Sunday, June 3, 1951. Drivers from 10 states participated for future, contending spots in the IMCA circuit standing.

Many strong contenders began their driving careers here in Riverside: Greg, Jerry and Kenny Weld; Jud Larson, John Fleming, Jerry Beach and Jim Penney, just to name a few. Many of these drivers went on to participate in the Indianapolis 500. In an interview several years ago, Jim Penney recalled coming to Riverside with his father as a young man. Before long, auto racing became a big part of his life. Penney recalled drawing for his position in the first race of the evening. "Then, if you were lucky enough to place in the top four contenders, you could be certain that you would qualify for the main event," he said. Top speeds in the early years were about 55-66 mph. If you were fortunate to win, your pay would be either a trophy or a small cash prize. Fans and friendships were also a large part of racing, Penney noted. Many working men competed in the events and they were a great source of family entertainment. Crowds varied with each event, but the Saturday night stock car races were the most popular. And while accidents did happen, the real focus was more on skill. E. H. Young owned and operated the race track from 1951-1975, then leased the facility until it closed in 1988. He enjoyed auto racing and made a personal connection with drivers and fans.

The race track had an effect on many homeowners. Norma and Irene Jones' home feels like a rural hillside but Irene Jones admits that there were some doubts when they first moved in. "The (auto) race track was at the bottom of the hill and sometimes it sounded like the finish line was in my kitchen," she now laughs. "But later there was the drive-in and that was great. All the neighborhood kids could sit out back and watch the shows." The couple eventually had four children. Norman worked 43 years for Mobile Oil while Irene worked for 19 years as librarian in Riverside's Mid-Continent Public Library. "This is an incredible place," Irene concludes. "The view here is fantastic in the winter and in the summer, it's like we're out in the country somewhere."

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