The History of the Tulsa Shootout: The Mecca of Micro Sprint Racing

The Tulsa Shootout, often dubbed the "Mecca of Micros," is the world's largest indoor micro sprint racing event. Held annually in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the SageNet Center (formerly known as the Tulsa Expo Center), this massive spectacle brings together thousands of entries, hundreds of drivers from across the globe, and fans eager to witness high-octane dirt track action on a temporary clay oval built inside the arena. The event's iconic trophy—a replica of Tulsa's famous **Golden Driller** statue—symbolizes victory in one of motorsport's most prestigious grassroots competitions.

Origins and Early Years (1985–2000s)

The Tulsa Shootout began in **1985**, founded by Emmett Hahn as a modest indoor micro sprint event during the winter offseason. It was designed to give drivers a chance to compete on dirt when outdoor tracks were dormant. Held inside the Expo Square building, the event quickly gained traction in the micro sprint community.

Micro sprints—smaller, lighter versions of full-sized sprint cars—became the focus, with classes like Stock Non-Wing and Outlaw divisions emerging early on. In the 1990s and early 2000s, drivers like Gregg Baker dominated, amassing a record 13 Golden Driller trophies (including quad classes). The event grew steadily, establishing itself as a proving ground for young talent.

Growth and Evolution (2010s–Present)

By the 2010s, the Shootout had exploded in popularity. Classes expanded to include Winged Outlaw, Non-Wing Outlaw, A-Class (winged), Stock Non-Wing, Restricted A-Class, and Junior Sprints for younger drivers. The format features hundreds of heat races, qualifiers, and alphabet mains leading to championship features.

Notable milestones:

- Drivers like **Frank Flud**, **Blake Hahn** (Emmett Hahn's grandson), and the late **Donnie Ray Crawford** became multi-time winners.

- The event attracted crossover stars, with NASCAR drivers like **Kyle Larson**, **Christopher Bell**, and **Kyle Busch** competing alongside micro sprint regulars.

- Only a few, including Larson and Bell, have won Golden Drillers at both the Shootout and the related Chili Bowl Nationals midget event. The Shootout's sibling event, the Chili Bowl, shares the same venue and promoter, creating "Golden Driller season" in January.

Modern Era: Record-Breaking Scale

In recent years, the Tulsa Shootout has shattered records. The **41st annual event in 2026** set new highs with over **2,000 entries** (2,079 total, 2,010 competing), 851 drivers from 43 states and six countries, and 433 races over five days. Winners hoist Golden Drillers in six classes, with standout performances from young talents and veterans alike.

The event's growth reflects micro sprint racing's rising prominence, launching careers into USAC, World of Outlaws, and even NASCAR. Highlights include dramatic passes, family rivalries (like the Larsons and Buschs), and intense competition on the tight 1/5-mile clay track built with hundreds of truckloads of dirt.

Legacy and Future

From humble beginnings in 1985 to a global motorsport phenomenon, the Tulsa Shootout embodies the spirit of dirt track racing: accessible, thrilling, and family-oriented. It continues to inspire the next generation, with kids as young as 6 competing in Junior Sprints and teens battling pros in Outlaw classes.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to micro sprints, the Shootout's history is one of growth, passion, and unforgettable moments. "Win the Driller!" remains the ultimate goal in the world of micro sprint racing.