Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio, is a classic fairgrounds venue that comes alive each year with the roar of American Flat Track racing. The half-mile dirt oval is a staple on the AFT circuit, known as the Lima Half-Mile, and a favorite for racers and fans alike in northwest Ohio. Expect a packed house during race events, with spectators lining the track to get up close to the action. This is a true, grassroots racing experience. The focus is on the competition and the atmosphere, with a no-frills environment that brings you back to the roots of flat track racing. Because it's a fairgrounds, parking can be ample, but be prepared for potentially uneven ground. The Lima Half-Mile is a must-see for any serious flat track fan looking for an authentic racing experience, and a great introduction to the sport for newcomers curious about motorcycle racing.
Watch: Allen County Fairgrounds
Know Before You Go
- Event nights
- Flat-track ovals typically run Saturday-night programs through summer. Classes range from amateur to AFT-sanctioned national events. Expect $15-35 general admission.
- What you'll see
- Riders slide bikes sideways through corners with no front brake, using throttle and rear brake to steer. Modern AFT bikes hit 130+ mph on the straights of mile ovals.
- Bring
- Earplugs (open-piped V-twins are loud), a stadium chair for shorter venues, and binoculars for mile-long tracks where the far straight is a quarter-mile away.