24/04/2026
The 2026 Lonestar Challenge starts in just 2 weeks!
Track and race info:
Signups-
Signups are at https://thedirt.us and will also be at the track.
Schedule-
Wednesday May 6th - Pit setup and registration, track is closed
Thursday May 7th - 9am-8pm Controlled practice
Friday May 8th - 9am Seeding Practice and 1 round of Qualifying
Saturday May 9th - 9am 2 rounds of qualifying and lower mains
Sunday May 10th - 9am Mains and Awards
Classes-
1:8 Nitro Buggy – Sportsman
1:8 Nitro Buggy – Intermediate
1:8 Worlds Pro Nitro Buggy
-Worlds class follows Ifmar rules, qualifying and mains
1:8 Nitro Buggy – 40+ (with ID)
1:8 Nitro Buggy 50 + (with ID)
1:8 Electric Buggy – Sportsman
1:8 Electric Buggy – Intermediate
1:8 Electric Buggy – Pro
1:8 Electric Buggy – 40+ (with ID)
1:8 Nitro Truck – Sportsman
1:8 Nitro Truck – Intermediate
1:8 Nitro Truck – Pro
1:8 Nitro Truck – 40+ (with ID)
1:8 Electric Truck – Sportsman
1:8 Electric Truck – Intermediate
1:8 Electric Truck – Pro
1:8 Electric Truck – 40+ (with ID)
Tech-
The only class that will be teched is the world’s class. World’s class will follow Ifmar rules meaning 25% fuel and no tire sauce.
Track Pit spaces-
We have a large covered pit area that has tables, chairs, fans, race display, and pa speaker. We also have the same type of pit area that is air conditioned. The track provided covered and air conditioned spaces will need to be purchased to use. You can purchase them on our website thornhillrc.com or use the direct link: https://www.thornhillrc.com/event-details/2026-lonestar-challenge-pit-reservations
Lodging-
There is over 50 hotels within 15 miles of the track. Hutto is the closest city with hotels but not always the cheapest. Check hotels in Taylor and Georgetown as they are the next closest and sometimes cheaper.
Hobbyshop-
We have a fully stocked hobbyshop with tires and part from most of the popular brands. We carry full parts for Kyosho, Tekno, Associated, Xray, Mugen and TLR. We also carry fuel, tires, and accessories for all of the vehicles. The hobbyshop also has an assortment of snacks and drinks available.
Track size-
Thornhill’s track size is 200’x120’ (70m x 36.5m) which is 24,000sqft (2230sqm) of track. The dirt is called sandy loam and comes from the Colorado river basin area. It is a mixture of sand, silt and clay. It packs very hard but accepts water and is easy to break back apart when wet.
Track Build and Prep-
We build the track using skid steers which we also use to do the main packing of the dirt. We finish off the packing with a rolling vibratory packer and plate packer. We keep the dirt moist the entire time we are working it. We use an additive to the water after it is built. This additive(dedust) is only for keeping dust down, it is not a glue of any kind. We keep the track wet and moisture in it up until the start of practice. During practice we will close the track and water it at least one more time. Each evening after running on the track we will water various sections of the track depending on if they need water to help hold the track together. We paint the infield of the track with a non toxic agricultural dye. Track barriers are made of a HDPE plastic and are very tough and smooth.
Tires-
When practice first opens and the track is wet almost any tire will work. As the track starts to dry a small pin in a soft or super soft compound works best. As a groove starts to form many switch to bar tires. If your driving is such that stying in the groove is difficult then stay on small pin tires. As the track dries more and grooves more during the event you will want to go harder on the compounds that you are using. Traction compound is allowed but can’t be applied in any indoor spaces. Use of plug in heat guns is not allowed when using track power. Battery operated heat guns are allowed. Ifmar has stated to us that any use of tire sauce applied at any time or location will not be allowed at the worlds.
EZ-UP Pit spots-
There is an area close to the covered pit area that is available for ezup setup an pitting. Electricity is available in this area, bring an extension cord. Ezup pitting is also available in the grass areas around the facility. There is no charge for ezup pitting.
RV/Pit trailer Parking-
RV’s and Pit Trailers will need to provide your own power. No hookups available at the track. Fresh water is available to fill tanks but that is it. If you are caught plugging into track power to run an air conditioner or air compressor you will be asked to leave. RV and Pit Trailer locations are first come first serve. You must park in the grass, we have about 10 acres available for this so plenty of room. No fees for RV/pit trailer parking. Also no fees for camping.
Food-
Food vendors will be on location during the event. The hobbyshop has snacks and drinks available. Restaurant and fast food locations are available within a 15 min drive from the track
Shipping to track-
You can ship to the track, just make sure the recipients name is on the box. Address is Thornhill Racing Circuit, 1575 County Road 101, Hutto TX 78634
