Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Illinois State Fairgrounds has become something of a Mecca in the world of dirt-track motorcycle racing.

That’s how Jared Mees sees it. He’s the promoter of, and former competitor in, the Springfield Mile, which is back at the fairgrounds this weekend, Saturday and Sunday.

“You’ve got to talk about how iconic (the race) is, how legendary this race is,” said Mees, on the WTAX Morning Newswatch.  “This is one of the longest running flat track races in the world.  It’s the biggest race in the world…it was so big…that back in the day, just winning this race along, crowned you the grand national championship.  So, you go here, you win, you are the champion.”

Now, Mees says it’s part of a 16 race series — well, more than that.

“This actually marks rounds 15 and 16,” said Mees.  “It’s the last two races of the 16 race series of American flat tracks.”  So, Mees says, the Springfield Mile still crowns a winner.

The races are over the weekend, while activities start Thursday, including some smaller competitions, and activities for youth who may be interested in the sport.

There will be 50 races going up to 140 miles per hour each on the flat-track oval at the fairground, Mees said.

Tickets must be purchased to attend the weekend races.