The Chill is Back: Mercer’s 75th Anniversary Season Thaws Out with the Chiller Thriller March 28th!

MERCER, PA – As the final frost of March clings to the hollows of Western Pennsylvania, the silence at Michael’s Mercer Raceway is about to be shattered by the thunder of high-compression engines. On Saturday, March 28, 2026, the “tricky” 3/8-mile red clay oval kicks off its historic 75th Anniversary season with the return of a fan favorite: the Chiller Thriller.

Under the fresh ownership of Earl and Michelle Michaels, the track is leaning heavily into its storied legacy. While the official “75th Season Opener” with 410 Sprints isn’t until April 18, the Chiller Thriller serves as the traditional “lid-lifter,” a high-octane wake-up call for a region starved for dirt track action after a long winter.

The Heavy Hitters: Super Late Models Return

The main attraction for the evening is the return of the Dirt Super Late Models. Known for their door-to-door intensity and breathtaking speeds on Mercer’s egg-shaped layout, the Super Lates haven’t been a weekly staple here in years, making their “Chiller” appearance a must-watch event.

Fans can expect regional titans to converge on Fairground Road, looking to join the elite list of past Chiller winners like Dave Hess Jr. and Robbie Blair. With a smooth, tacky surface expected from the early spring moisture, the track record of 16.288 seconds could very well be under threat if the sun stays tucked behind the clouds.

A Multitude of Horsepower

The night isn’t just about the Late Models. The 2026 edition of the Chiller Thriller boasts a packed card that highlights the track’s diverse commitment to the sport:

• RaceSaver 305 Sprints: The methanol-fueled winged warriors begin their quest for the IMCA-sanctioned track championship.
• DIRT 602 Crate Sportsman: This division has become the “bread and butter” of Mercer, often providing the most competitive side-by-side racing of the night.
• Mini Stocks: These “mighty” machines never fail to entertain, proving that you don’t need a massive budget to put on a show.
• Crown Vics: Adding a touch of grassroots grit, the Crown Vics make a special appearance to round out the five-division program.

Event Details & Schedule

The atmosphere at the Chiller Thriller is unlike any other race on the calendar. There’s a shared camaraderie among fans wrapped in blankets and hoodies, all united by the smell of racing fuel and the first sight of clay being flung into the night air.

As the engines roar to life on March 28, it won’t just be a race; it will be the beginning of a year-long celebration of three-quarters of a century of speed at one of the nation’s oldest dirt tracks. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate from the concession stand, and get ready—the 2026 season is officially here.