Watertown, SD — The roar of engines and the smell of burning rubber marked the return of stock car racing to the Upper Midwest this past weekend, as Casino Speedway kicked off its historic 72nd season with a thrilling Mother’s Day program on Sunday, May 10. Six drivers emerged victorious in their respective divisions, setting the tone for what promises to be an action-packed year at the legendary quarter-mile oval.

The evening’s feature winners showcased a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, each navigating the tight turns and high-speed straightaways of the Watertown track. In the Late Model division, local favorite Curt Kranz (Watertown) and Ryan Engels (Watertown) thrilled the crowd with a side-by-side battle that had fans on their feet, while in the Midwest Modifieds, a fierce heat race saw Darren Engesser (Gary), Tom Neitzel (Watertown), Taylor Schmidt (Aberdeen), and Scott Hansen (Garden City) trading paint and positions.

The Gen X Late Models delivered their own brand of excitement, with Parker Gilbertson (Watson, MN), Ryan Nelson (Castlewood), and Tony Croninger (Watertown) pushing the limits in a tight heat race. Meanwhile, the Hornets division saw Matthew Moes (Watertown) and Dylan Tirrel (White) battling for supremacy, while Coltyn Schuler (Montevideo, MN), Al Schmidt (Watertown), and Adam Dehne (Medina, ND) put on a show in the Street Stocks.

Beyond Watertown, area drivers also competed at tracks in Aberdeen, Montevideo (MN), and Fergus Falls (MN), making for a full weekend of regional racing action. The season opener not only celebrated the speedway’s rich history—dating back to 1954—but also signaled the start of summer for racing fans across the Dakotas and Minnesota.

With cooler temps giving way to warmer evenings, the 2026 season is off and running. Whether you’re a driver, a fan, or just someone who loves the thrill of the race, Casino Speedway is the place to be on Sunday nights. Gear up, get trackside, and let the good times roll.