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Historic Eddyville Raceway Park Hits the Market After Six Decades of Drag Racing Legacy

One of the Midwest’s most respected drag racing facilities is officially for sale. The owners of Eddyville Raceway Park, a staple in the eighth-mile drag racing scene since 1965, have made the decision to put the historic venue on the market, opening the door to a rare opportunity in grassroots motorsports.

Located just an hour southeast of Des Moines, Iowa, Eddyville has served racers and fans alike for nearly 60 consecutive years. Originally AHRA-sanctioned, the track quickly developed a reputation as a must-visit facility for sportsman racers, while also attracting a who’s-who of professional stars over the decades — including Don “The Snake” Prudhomme, Big Daddy Don Garlits, Dyno Don Nicholson, Vern Moats, Ron Capps, and Tommy Johnson Jr.

Under the steady leadership of Gerald Kramer and Scott Gardner since 2006, the track has seen significant investment and evolution. More than $250,000 in upgrades have been poured into the racing surface, safety equipment, lighting, timing systems, and general facility maintenance. Key additions include Musco Lighting, Accutime Timing System, concrete safety walls, a new track sprayer, and more – ensuring that Eddyville remains a top-tier racing destination.

“I have spent most of my life in racing and race track ownership and operations,” said Gerald Kramer. “I’m now at the age where I want to slow down a bit. We have a strong financial foundation and business operational structure and tremendous support from many marketing partners.”

The facility has been sanctioned by NHRA, IHRA, and most recently WDRA, and continues to host cornerstone events like The Night of Fire, World Fuel Altered Nationals, and Funny Car Chaos. A deep roster of local sportsman racers, loyal fans, and consistent sponsor support have made Eddyville one of the more financially stable tracks in the country.

Built in 1965, Eddyville Raceway Park stands today as a model for sustainable, small-market drag racing. For qualified buyers, this listing represents more than a business – it’s a chance to steward a legacy.

Inquiries and prospectus requests can be made by contacting Scott Gardner at sgardner5472@gmail.com.

This story was originally published on August 7, 2025. Drag Illustrated

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