If you love fast cars, exciting races, and a beautiful track surrounded by nature, the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course is a place you need to know about. Whether you’re a motorsport fan, a driver, or just looking for a fun event to attend, this race track offers a bit of everything. Located in Lexington, Ohio, it’s one of the top road racing tracks in the U.S. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Mid-Ohio so special.
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What is the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course?
The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course is a permanent road racing track that opened in 1962. Since then, it’s become a favorite spot for both professional and amateur racers. It’s known for its fun layout, great viewing spots, and exciting events.
Where is it?
Mid-Ohio is located in Lexington, Ohio, about halfway between Columbus and Cleveland. The track is surrounded by trees and rolling hills, giving it a peaceful feel – until the engines roar!
A Look at the Track Layout
The course is well-known for its curves, elevation changes, and challenging turns. There are actually two main layouts:
- 2.4-mile, 15-turn layout – used for most professional races.
- 2.258-mile, 13-turn layout – a shorter version often used for club races and schools.
Fun for Drivers and Spectators
The mix of fast sections and tight corners makes it a favorite for drivers, while fans love how close they can get to the action. There are lots of grassy hills for sitting, and the views of the track are great from almost anywhere.
Major Events at Mid-Ohio
Mid-Ohio hosts a variety of top-tier racing series every year. Here are some of the biggest ones:
NTT INDYCAR Series
The INDYCAR Series races at Mid-Ohio every summer. It’s one of the most popular events at the track and draws huge crowds. Drivers love the technical challenge of the course.
IMSA SportsCar Championship
If you enjoy sports cars, this event is a must-see. The IMSA series brings high-performance vehicles like Porsche, Corvette, and Acura to the track for an action-packed weekend.
MotoAmerica
Mid-Ohio isn’t just for cars. The MotoAmerica motorcycle series also visits the track. The tight corners and fast straights make it a thrilling event for bike fans.
Vintage and Club Racing
In addition to the big names, Mid-Ohio also hosts smaller events, like vintage races, club races, and amateur events. These are great for people who want to get into racing or just enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.
Driving Schools and Experiences
Mid-Ohio is more than just a racetrack – it’s also a place to learn. The track is home to the Mid-Ohio School, which offers different types of driving programs.
High Performance Driving School
This course is perfect for people who want to learn how to handle their car better. It includes classroom lessons and time on the track.
Defensive Driving Courses
Young drivers and adults can take defensive driving classes to learn how to stay safe on the road in all kinds of weather and traffic situations.
Racing School
Want to become a racer? Mid-Ohio offers racing school programs that teach you everything from the basics to advanced skills.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Mid-Ohio is a great place to bring the family. Many events allow you to walk around the paddock, meet drivers, and get close to the cars. There’s plenty of space to picnic, relax, or explore.
Camping and RV Options
For race weekends, many fans choose to camp right at the track. Whether you’re in a tent or an RV, the on-site camping areas are clean, safe, and just steps from the action.
Food and Amenities
You won’t go hungry at Mid-Ohio. During big events, the track has plenty of food vendors offering everything from burgers and fries to local treats. There are also souvenir shops, restrooms, and shaded areas to relax.
Tips for Visiting Mid-Ohio
Best Time to Go
The summer months are the most popular, especially during INDYCAR and IMSA weekends. Arrive early for the best spots and shortest lines.
What to Bring
- Sunscreen and hats (there’s not much shade!)
- Blankets or folding chairs
- Ear protection (races are loud!)
- Cash for vendors (some may not take cards)
Parking
There’s plenty of free and paid parking available. Some people prefer to park offsite and walk in, while others like being close to their campsite or seats.
Mid-Ohio’s History: A Quick Look Back
The track first opened in 1962, designed by Les Griebling. Over the years, it has hosted everything from Can-Am and Trans-Am races to Formula 5000 and NASCAR.
In 1982, the track was bought by Jim Trueman, a racing fan and businessman. He made big improvements and helped the track grow in popularity.
Today, Mid-Ohio is owned by Green Savoree Racing Promotions, a company that also runs other tracks and race events. They’ve continued to upgrade the facilities and bring in big-name series.
Why People Love Mid-Ohio
Great for Fans
The open layout, fan-friendly atmosphere, and laid-back feel make it perfect for race lovers of all ages.
Fun for Racers
Drivers of all levels say Mid-Ohio is one of the most fun – and most challenging – road courses in the country.
Beautiful Setting
With its natural beauty and peaceful location, Mid-Ohio feels like a weekend getaway – even during high-speed races.
Future of Mid-Ohio
Mid-Ohio continues to grow and change with each season. The owners keep investing in better facilities, track upgrades, and new events. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning every year, there’s always something new to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
The Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course is more than just a race track – it’s a place full of passion, history, and excitement. From thrilling INDYCAR races to hands-on driving schools, it offers something for everyone.
So whether you’re a die-hard racing fan, a casual spectator, or someone who just enjoys a fun day outdoors, Mid-Ohio is a must-visit destination in Ohio.