By NOAH REED
Racing Correspondent
Racing returns to Stockton later this month as the New Stockton 99 Speedway is set to host its 76th year of weekly racing divisions. The season opener is scheduled for Saturday, March 29 at 5 p.m.
The best Stockton Late Model drivers headline the start of the 2025 championship chase. In 2024, Stockton native Larry Tankersley bested JoJo Stearns by just one point to capture his third career 99 track championship.
The opening night also features the NorCal Legends Series, Pure Stocks, Nor Cal Mini Stocks and Fast Kar Solutions Mini Modifieds. Pit gates open at 2 p.m., with racing to start at 6 p.m.
Fans can catch some preseason testing action throughout March with two fan appreciation test and tune days on Saturdays, March 15 and 22. The grandstands will be open for free from noon to 5 p.m. for fans to see cars hit the track for the first time in 2025.
Stockton 99 Speedway will host 17 different events throughout the year. This includes the annual Fourth of July Ron Strmiska Firecracker 90, Spears Cars Tour West Late Models, the NCMA Modifieds, a NorCal Legends National Qualifier race and a Night of Champions tribute.
Adult tickets for the season opener can be purchased for $20 at the front gate. Ages 11-15, seniors and military members with a valid ID can get tickets for $15. Children under the age of 10 and parking at all Stockton 99 Speedway events are free.
In addition, the Stockton Dirt Track, located at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, will be hosting 11 big events beginning with the Salute to Leroy Van Conett Night show featuring the NARC 410 Sprints, Hunt Magneto Wingless Sprints, Legend of Kearney Bowl and Nor Cal Dwarf cars on Saturday, March 8. Other highlights include the Fall National Tractor Pulls on Saturday, Sept. 13 and a Monster Truck Madness doubleheader on Saturday, Oct. 4.
Head to the Stockton99.com website to find the full schedule and more information for both the Stockton 99 Speedway and Stockton Dirt Track.
These events would not be possible without the support of sponsors. Those included: Black Oak Casino Resort, Tracy Ford, Raising Cane’s, Bass Pro Shops, N&S Tractors, Lovotti Incorporated, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Hoosier Racing Tire, J. Milano Co., Masellis Drilling, Kleen Blast, Shamblin Softwash, Central Valley Community Bank, KAT Country 103, Franks Radio Services, 104.1 The Hawk, Sunoco Race Fuels and Garton Tractor.
