The good news is that races are once again being held at the Chatham Raceway. The bad news is that until Governor Jon Bel Edwards approves the second stage of the reopening of the state, which hopefully will take place sometime in June, no fans are going to be allowed at the track.

This past Saturday, May 16th, the track opened their 2020 summer season with eight races including the “Ark-La-Tex Wing Modified” that drew a good amount of fans rooting for their favorite drivers. After the racing was completed track officials were informed by Region 4, Corporal, Mark Franks of the State of Louisiana Fire Marshall Office that the track had violated the “Phase One” state reopening requirements set for by Governor Jon Bel Edwards.

Jackson Parish Fire Marshall representative Mark Treadway explained further. ‘Races can be held but Phase One doesn’t allow for spectators to be allowed at the track.”

This Friday and Saturday, May 22nd-23rd, competitors will once again get to take to the track for Limited, Street Stock, B-Mod, Factory and Compact car racing for regular purses. Beginners will also be competing and no entry fee is required.

The feature races of the weekend will be the two day Mississippi Super Late Model Series where the winner will receive $2,500.00 and competitors will get $200.00 for starting on Friday and a $5,000.00 winner’s check and $300.00 for starting on Saturday. There is a $100 entry fee for each night.