Brainerd International Raceway

LOCATION:

5523 Birchdale Rd, Brainerd, MN 56401

PHONE: 866-444-4455

LENGTH: 1/4 MILE

TURN COUNT: 0

CONFIGURATION: asphalt

Brainerd International Raceway began in 1968 as a simple three-mile track carved through the woods near North Long Lake, without today’s amenities, but quickly grew into a world-class motorsports venue that attracted top road-racing, drag-racing and motorcycle talent. Originally known as Donnybrooke Speedway, it was purchased in 1973 by racing legend Jerry Hansen, who expanded its road-racing reputation while major series like Trans-Am, the SCCA, AMA Superbike and stars such as Paul Newman, Wayne Rainey, Bobby and Al Unser, and Ken Schrader elevated its profile. Drag racing rose in prominence starting in 1969, eventually leading to major events like the Crown Auto Championships and the hugely popular NorthStar Nationals, which evolved into the NHRA Nationals—now one of the Upper Midwest’s largest sporting events, drawing over 100,000 fans and famous for its on-site campground, The Zoo. From its humble beginnings, BIR has transformed into a premier racing destination whose history continues to shape the Brainerd Lakes Area.