The Ultimate Guide To County Line Raceway NC: 5 Reasons Why This 3/8-Mile Clay Oval Dominates Dirt Track Racing In 2025
As of December 20, 2025, the roar of engines at County Line Raceway in Elm City, North Carolina, continues to cement its legacy as one of the premier dirt track racing facilities in the Southeast. This iconic 3/8-mile clay oval is not just a venue; it's a family-run institution that has been delivering high-octane excitement for decades, drawing passionate fans and top-tier drivers from across the region for its weekly shows and special events.
This deep dive provides the most current information available, looking back at the thrilling 2024 season and offering an exclusive preview of what to expect as the track prepares for the 2025 campaign. From the marquee Late Model division to the fiercely competitive Pure Stock classes, County Line Raceway remains the gold standard for grassroots racing.
County Line Raceway NC: History, Location, and Core Divisions
County Line Raceway is a true staple of North Carolina's racing heritage. The facility is strategically located at 6953 Stagecoach Road in Elm City, NC, making it a central hub for dirt track enthusiasts in the state.
The track’s long and storied history began on May 21st, 1988, when it was first opened by the dedicated efforts of Edward and Carolyn Upchurch. Their vision was to create a top-quality, family-friendly venue, and that commitment to the sport continues to define the track's operations today. The 3/8-mile clay oval configuration is known for producing intense, side-by-side action, often leading to dramatic finishes that keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
The Main Racing Classes at County Line Raceway
The 2024 season showcased incredible talent across multiple divisions, and these core classes are expected to return as the heart of the 2025 schedule. Each class offers a unique style of racing, catering to diverse driver skill sets and car setups.
- 4 Boys Racing Supply Late Model: This is the premier division, featuring powerful machines and the fastest drivers on the clay. The Late Models are the main draw, often headlining the biggest events of the season.
- Quality Preowned Super Stock 4 Cylinder: A highly competitive class known for close-quarters racing and a large field of entries. Drivers like Jason Horne and Dakota Whitley were key competitors in the 2024 points chase.
- Carolina Auto Parts & Salvage Thunder V8: Offering a thrilling blend of power and maneuverability, the Thunder V8 division is a fan favorite, providing plenty of door-to-door action.
- Tidewater Energy Pure Stock 4 Cylinder: The entry-level Pure Stock class is crucial for developing new talent, but the racing is anything but tame, with drivers like Bradley Knotts and Johnny Poland Jr. battling for the top spot.
The Thrill of the 2024 Season: Major Events and Champions
The 2024 racing season at the Elm City facility was marked by a series of high-stakes events and the crowning of hard-fought champions. The competition was fierce, with drivers pushing their machines to the limit on the slick clay surface. The season officially kicked off with the annual Awards Banquet in February 2024, celebrating the previous year’s successes and setting the stage for the new year.
One of the most anticipated events was the Fast 5 Late Model Shootout. This special 5-race series for the Limited Late Model division offered a separate points championship, adding a compelling layer of strategy and intensity to the season. The Shootout attracted some of the region's best dirt track specialists, eager to claim the prestigious title and the significant purse money.
Beyond the local classes, County Line Raceway frequently hosts major touring series, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit track on the dirt circuit. The 2024 calendar featured appearances by the Modified Mafia Tour and the high-speed Carolina Outlaw Super Street Series, bringing in drivers and fans from across the Carolinas and beyond. These events are crucial for boosting the track’s topical authority and showcasing the diverse world of dirt racing to the local community.
The competition was evident in the 2024 points standings. In the Super Stock 4 Cylinder division, drivers like Brad Hamm and Brandon King were consistent frontrunners, demonstrating the depth of talent in the local racing scene. The intense competition across all divisions underscores the track’s commitment to fair and exciting racing, governed by a clear set of general rules and regulations.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 County Line Raceway Schedule
As the 2024 season concludes and the winter months settle in, the focus immediately shifts to the preparation and anticipation for the 2025 campaign. The off-season is a crucial time for teams to rebuild their cars, secure sponsorships, and fine-tune their strategies for the upcoming year.
The first official event on the 2025 calendar is the highly-anticipated Test & Tune session, scheduled for Saturday, March 1, 2025. This event is a critical shakedown for all major classes—including the Late Model, Super Stock 4 Cylinder, Thunder V8, and Pure Stock divisions—allowing drivers to test new setups and get back into race shape before the points season officially begins.
What Makes the 2025 Season a Must-See?
The 2025 season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, building on the momentum of the previous year. Fans can expect a full slate of weekly Saturday night racing, punctuated by several major special events that will draw regional and national attention. The track management consistently works to bring in new and exciting touring series, ensuring the racing product remains fresh and competitive.
The dedication to the grassroots level is what truly sets County Line Raceway apart. The track’s rules and regulations are designed to promote competitive balance, ensuring that both veteran drivers and newcomers have a fair shot at victory. This focus on a level playing field is why the Elm City dirt track is so revered by the racing community.
Key entities to watch in the 2025 season will be the emerging stars from the Pure Stock classes who are looking to move up, as well as the established veterans in the Late Model division defending their turf. The ongoing battles for the season-long points championships in the Tidewater Energy Pure Stock 4 Cylinder and the Carolina Auto Parts & Salvage Thunder V8 are guaranteed to provide weekly drama.
For the most up-to-date information on the 2025 schedule, event times, and driver registration, fans and competitors are encouraged to monitor the official track communications. The team at County Line Raceway, reachable at 252-985-1949 or via email at brenda@countylineracewaync.com, remains committed to keeping the racing community informed and engaged. The combination of a rich history, a challenging 3/8-mile clay oval, and a commitment to competitive excellence ensures that County Line Raceway will continue its reign as a North Carolina racing powerhouse for years to come.
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