The 2025 Radial Outlaws Racing Series (RORS) schedule has been officially announced, setting the stage for an exhilarating season of small-tire drag racing. This series is renowned for its ability to push the boundaries of this exciting sport and bring together the best racers from around the world. Among the many highlights is the addition of the Shakedown at M-Town, which will take place from May 29-31 at the prestigious U.S. 131 Motorsports Park in Martin, Michigan. With its top-notch racing surface and state-of-the-art facilities, U.S. 131 is the ideal venue to host this iconic event, which is now entering its 22nd year.

Donald “Duck” Long: A Driving Force in Small-Tire Drag Racing

Donald “Duck” Long, the visionary promoter behind RORS, is ecstatic about the inclusion of the Shakedown in the series. His career has been characterized by his unwavering dedication to providing radial racers with the recognition they deserve. This mission remains at the forefront as he adds this landmark event to the RORS lineup.“Throughout my career, I have always believed in giving racers a stage that showcases their talent. U.S. 131 Motorsports Park truly embodies that concept. The Shakedown has always been about bringing together the best small-tire racers, and this track’s reputation for delivering exceptional performance makes it the perfect place to continue this tradition. We are taking this event to new heights,” Long said.As the Shakedown embarks on this new chapter, Long expresses his gratitude to Tyler Crossnoe and the team at Virginia Motorsports Park (VMP), who have hosted the event in recent years. Under their leadership, the Shakedown has solidified its position as a must-attend event in the drag racing community.“Tyler and the VMP team have done an outstanding job with the Shakedown. They have been instrumental in keeping this event at the forefront of small-tire racing, and I am grateful for their contributions to building the legacy we are continuing in 2025,” Long said.The addition of the Shakedown reflects Long’s long-standing commitment to elevating small-tire drag racing. He was among the first to recognize the potential of these competitors and give them the recognition and opportunities they deserve. This philosophy has driven the success of his signature events, such as the legendary “Lights Out” and “No Mercy” races, which have become staples of the drag racing calendar.“When we first started, radial guys were often overlooked and racing for minimal rewards. This didn’t sit well with me. We changed the game by putting them on the concrete, giving them the spotlight, and paying them what they are truly worth. That’s why we are where we are today,” Long explained.The 2025 RORS season kicks off in January with the U.S. Street Nationals in Bradenton, Florida, and continues with marquee events like Radial Revolution in February and the Battle for the Thrones in March. The Shakedown at M-Town in late May will be a major highlight, as it brings together the best small-tire racers from around the world for an unforgettable weekend of competition. Each race on the calendar showcases the intense competition and camaraderie that have made small-tire drag racing a global phenomenon.David Hance played a crucial role in building the Shakedown into an industry-defining event. Long is determined to carry on that legacy and ensure the continued success of the Shakedown.“We are building on what David Hance started with the Shakedown and taking it to a level where it can thrive for years to come. This is not just about a race; it’s about preserving a tradition and providing racers and fans with something truly special,” Long said.Long’s commitment to racers goes beyond the track. He offers personalized trophies and on-the-spot payouts, demonstrating his attention to detail and earning him the unwavering loyalty of the sport. His approach has made the Radial Outlaws Racing Series the premier destination for small-tire competitors.The 2025 schedule also includes the Bama Outlaws in Alabama and No Mercy 16 at South Georgia Motorsports Park in October. Each event is expected to deliver high-octane excitement and create unforgettable moments for both fans and racers.The Shakedown at M-Town marks a new chapter in the Radial Outlaws Racing Series’ history. U.S. 131 Motorsports Park is ready to welcome the small-tire drag racing community to its world-class facilities, and Long’s vision continues to drive the sport forward, ensuring its place at the forefront of the drag racing world.This story was originally published on December 3, 2024.