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Riverhead NY Apr. 30th
By Bob Finan
Photo Michael Jaworecki/Myracenews
Riverhead Raceway owners Connie Partridge and Tom Gatz on the threshold of opening weekend at the famed quarter mile oval, announced Thursday a purse increase for race teams competing during the 2026 NASCAR Local Racing Series powered by O’Reilly Auto Parts. Saturday evening plays host to the annual NASCAR Pack the Track program, while Sunday afternoon plays host to the May Meltdown presentation.
Track GM John Ellwood, speaking on behalf of the Partridge/Gatz promotional team shared, “Connie, Tom and I recognize race teams who call Riverhead Raceway home are the most loyal and passionate you’ll find anywhere in racing. With that in mind Connie & Tom have generously stepped up to announce purse increases for 2026”. While sharing the good news John further disclosed, “some divisions will find the increase at the top of the payoff, while others will find increased monies further down the payout. Want to offer a big thank you to Connie & Tom for their unwavering commitment to the racers and fans of Riverhead Raceway”.
The Buzz Chew Chevrolet NASCAR Modified 50-lap events will find the winner earning $1,800, while an Eagle Chevrolet Crate Modified victory now pays $550 to win. Feature event winners in the Super Pro Trucks, INEX Legend Race Cars and Street Stocks now will earn $300 for a victory in 2026, with last paying $75 in all three classes. Purses beyond the winner’s share for these and other divisions have been increased throughout the field.
The NASCAR Pack the Track Saturday evening opener is headlined by the Buzz Chew Chevrolet NASCAR Modifieds who’ll be joined by the Late Models, Eagle Chevrolet Crate Modifieds, TK Figure Eights, Blunderbusts, Super Pro Trucks and INEX Legend Race Cars. Spectator gates open at 5:00 PM, with Modified time trials kicking off qualifying at 5:15 PM with opening ceremonies slated for 6:30 PM. Adults are $30, kids 6-12 $20, 5 & under free.
Sunday the Street Stocks and Mini Stocks headline the May Meltdown program and are joined by the wildly popular INEX Bandoleros, Truck Enduro, 8-Cylinder Enduro, 4/6-Cylinder Enduro and a Women’s 4/6-Cylinder Enduro. General admission gates open at 12 noon with racing starting at 1:00 PM $30 for adults, $20 for kids 6-12, 5 & under are free.
To check out our comprehensive and exciting 2026 schedule of events please visit http://www.riverheadraceway.com, emails reach us at office@riverheadraceway.com, our phone number remains 631-842-RACE.
