The Stockton Dirt Track is set for a thrilling Halloween weekend of racing, fun, and family excitement as it hosts the annual Tribute to Gary Patterson, honoring one of the sport’s most legendary and colorful figures.
Families are in for a treat this year—literally! Kids 12 and under who come dressed in costume will receive free admission to the stands on Friday, October 31, during the opening night of the two-day event. After the races, youngsters can join in on a Trick-or-Treat session in the pit area, where teams will be handing out candy and goodies.
Friday Night Finale for Sprint Car Challenge Tour
The Friday night showdown also marks the championship finale for the Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour (SCCT). The traveling Winged 360 Sprint Car Series has spent the season thrilling fans up and down the West Coast—from Tulare to Skagit Speedway in Washington—and now the title comes down to Stockton.
Leading the charge is 15-year-old Sacramento driver Austin Wood, who hopes to make history as the youngest champion in SCCT history. Hot on his tail are Yuba City’s Seth Standley, Montana’s Cole Schroeder, Redding’s Max Mittry, and Marysville’s Dawson Hammes, rounding out the top five.
“We look forward to finishing off the Sprint Car Challenge Tour season on Halloween night at the Stockton Dirt Track,” said Tour President Scott Russell. “A big thank-you to Tony Noceti and his team for allowing free admittance to kids 12 and under in costume. Hopefully everyone will come out and help us wrap up the SCCT season in style.”
Also on the Friday lineup are the Joe Hunt Magnetos Wingless Sprint Cars and West Coast Pro Stocks, both closing out their seasons under the Stockton lights.
Saturday Championship Night
The action continues Saturday, November 1, with championship finals featuring the NARC 410 Sprint Cars, BCRA/WMR Midget Super Series, and Dwarf Cars. Hanford’s DJ Netto currently leads the NARC 410 points race heading into the weekend.
Honoring “GP” — The Dancing Phantom from Stockton
The annual event pays tribute to the late Gary Patterson, remembered as one of the most charismatic racers ever to climb behind the wheel. Known to fans as the “Dancing Phantom from Stockton,” “Preacher,” “Hostile Hippie,” or simply “GP,” Patterson’s career included major victories at the Gold Cup Race of Champions, the Super Dirt Cup in Washington, and the famed Turkey Night Grand Prix at Ascot Park.
Patterson began his racing journey at the Stockton 99 Speedway after moving to Stockton in 1957. Since his passing in 1983 following a crash at Calistoga Speedway, fans have gathered each year to celebrate his life and legacy. This year marks 13 consecutive years of honoring Patterson right here in Stockton.
Event Details
Tickets for both nights can be purchased at the gate or online at www.stocktondirttrack.com.
The Stockton Dirt Track is located on the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton, CA 95206.
Bring your family, wear your best costume, and get ready for a weekend of high-speed thrills and Halloween fun—Stockton style!