Free racing! Ethanol-themed “Tasseldega Nights” returns to Elko Speedway on June 6

Minnesota’s corn farmers are bringing their ethanol-fueled free racing promotion back to Elko Speedway this summer. On June 6, fans receive free admission to Elko Speedway as part of “Tasseldega Nights,” presented by the Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA).

Gates open at 5 p.m. and all the action kicks off at 6 p.m.  In addition to some of the best auto racing in the Midwest, fans at the track will have an opportunity to learn more about clean, renewable and homegrown ethanol from Minnesota corn farmers. If you’re looking for more fun in addition to racing, MCGA has lined up the following Tasseldega Nights activities:

• Racecar simulator. You’ll feel like you’re behind the wheel of an actual ethanol-powered stock car when you climb into this racing simulator.
• The Biofuels Mobile Education Center. Get an up-close look at the positive impact of ethanol and Minnesota-made biofuels by stepping inside this 45-foot long interactive trailer.
• Sit in a real race car. Jonathan Olmscheid races at tracks throughout Minnesota using ethanol to power his car. Jonathan will have his ethanol racer out so kids can sit behind the wheel and take pictures.
• Win discounted fuel. The American Lung Association of Minnesota’s Clean Air Choice team will be on hand, talking with fans about the clean-air benefits of ethanol and giving away discount coupons to fill up with ethanol-blended fuels at local service stations.
• Supermileage vehicles. These funky little go-kart type vehicles run on E85 and are designed to travel long distances on a single gallon of fuel. Braham High School will be showing off their E85 Supermileage cars during the races.
• Other corn-themed giveaways. MCGA will be handing out beads, launching free T-shirts into the crowd, giving away American Ethanol flags and can koozies and talking with people about clean, renewable and homegrown ethanol.
• Ted Tassel. MCGA’s life-sized and energetic mascot, Ted Tassel, will be roaming the grounds in search of high-fives and selfies.

Once the racing is finished, stick around for a free showing of “Fast and Furious 7” at Elko’s drive-in theater. Elko Speedway is located about 15 minutes south of the Twin Cities.

If you’re planning on attending “Tasseldega Night” on June 6, the only thing you have to do is show up to the track, come inside, and have a good time. There is no need to sign up or get any sort of pass before the event.

For more information on “Tasseldega Nights” and Elko Speedway, visit www.elkospeedway.com. For more information on MCGA, go to www.mncorn.org.