Dirt Track Racing Offers Challenge Series Between Republic, Northport

The two dirt tracks in Northeast Washington will work together in 2026 for a series of challenge races.

Northport International Raceway located across the Columbia River from the community of Northport and Eagle Track Raceway near Republic have worked out an arrangement where racers will compete in four races that will crown champions.

Those two tracks — Eagle Track nearly a 1/2 mile, and Northport, 3/8ths of a mile — are separated by about 75 miles of mountain road and Sherman Pass. They have tried periodically to cooperate with rules and schedules.
Eagle Track features a 10-race schedule, two of which are challenge races on May 16, their season opener, and Aug. 1.

“We will have one champion from each class. The points will be separate from their home track points,” according to an email from spokesperson, Wendy Braun.
Additionally, both tracks operate with a great deal of volunteers and Republic is looking for help in a variety of areas.

“We’re just looking for help on race days, flagger, announcer, tow truck driver, water truck driver, ticket takers,” Braun said.

Other noteworthy races at Republic include one in conjunction with the community’s Prospector’s Day celebration (June 13) and the annual Memorial Race (Sept. 12) that pays tribute to racers who have passed away.

Northport will open and close its schedule with mud bogs, April 4 and Oct. 17. and presents a special two-day Independence Day race, July 4-5. Those are part of 16 race dates, two in the challenge series on June 13 and Aug. 1.

Both tracks trace their beginnings back to the 1950s and have operated more-or-less ever since with some small gaps.

A trip to each track is worthwhile for a down-home style of racing. Northport provides a unique opportunity to “tailgate” and watch racing from above with an elevated bench that surrounds the track.

Eagle track has more grandstand seating, but also offers viewing from vehicles. Both tracks offer further information on Facebook.