The Sandhills Open Road Challenge returns this week to the area to celebrate its 25th anniversary. The event is now highlighted by three major events. The Loup 2 Loup race is scheduled for today (Thursday 8/7) with a scheduled start time of 8:30 a.m. The Loup 2 Loup course is comprised of a north and south leg between Halsey and Purdum, Nebraska, of approximately 21 miles and is described as a “ribbon of very smooth blacktop with more curves than a 40-foot python.”
Friday’s activities are highlighted by the 1/2 mile and one mile shootout. The event has become an integral part of SORC and creates great excitement for drivers and more than 1,000 spectators each year. The shootout has become so popular that organizers say the format has been copied by several national racing organizations. The event takes place between Cozad and Callaway on the Cozad-Callaway Co. Rd. The road closes for the race at 7:30 with the shootout scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m.
On Saturday, it’s the race that started it all 25 years ago. The SORC Race will start at 8:30 a.m. in Arnold, NE. The Sandhills Open Road Challenge (SORC) is a 55-mile rally style open road race through the scenic Nebraska Sandhills. Arguably the most demanding event of its kind in America, SORC offers a daunting series of “S” curves, straights, and 90-degree turns to challenge the most talented of drivers.
Other events during the week include the parade and car show through downtown Arnold on Friday beginning at 2:30 followed by the drag races and burnout contest at 3:30. A free will donation barbecue will take place Saturday evening at 5:30 at the Arnold city park followed by the SORC Awards presentation at 7 p.m.
Live coverage of this year’s event will be provided through KBBN radio, recognized as the official voice of SORC, and through sandhillsexpress.com. A live video stream of the Loup 2 Loup race, shootout, and SORC Race will be available through sandhillsexpress.com on the Sandhills Express Facebook page and Sandhills Express You Tube Channel. Live radio coverage of the three main events as well as driver interviews can be heard on KBBN 95.3 FM and kbbn.com.
