MINNEAPOLIS, Kan. --­ The new Minneapolis Raceway opens this spring, with IMCA sanctioned Modifieds, Stock Cars and Hobby Stocks on the Friday night ticket. Sporting a 3/8 mile clay racing surface and seating for 3,400 fans, the 44 acre raceway facility is located east of Min-neapolis off State Highway 106.

"We believe this is a nice facility. It's well lit and there's plenty of parking," said owner and promoter Terry Robins, who will operate the track with sons Scott and Ronny, both of whom have enjoyed successful racing careers in the Jayhawk State. "We're not trying to reinvent racing in north central Kansas. This will be a track where people can come and see good racing, and where drivers can race for points on Friday nights."

A test 'n tune day was held late last year and concession stands and restrooms are currently under construction. While the first night of the season has yet to be determined, Robins hopes to open in late April or early May. The schedule will be posted on the www.minneapolisraceway.com website.

Minneapolis Raceway will be in the Lucas Oil Central Region for Modifieds and in the Jet Racing Northern Region for Stock Cars.

"We think IMCA is a been there, done that, successful sanctioning body," Robins said. "We took a survey on our website and most of the people who answered said they preferred the IMCA sanction."

"I've already visited Minneapolis Raceway. Its design was well thought out and the entire facility will be top of the line," commented IMCA Vice President of Operations Brett Root. "This will be a good opportunity for racers in the area to compete weekly on Friday nights."