A Ghost of Its Former Self: The B&L Dragways, Benzie County
Here’s another lost speedway that has been manly forgotten: the B&L Speedway, also known as B&L Dragways, located at 6795 Hoadley Road in Benzonia, Benzie County.
A dirt oval track, it opened sometime during the 1950s.
Looking at the satellite photos, it’s painfully obvious that it has been closed for decades. If you were to go explore this area, you may be able to find remnants of the old track.
The name of the track came from the owners, Betty and Louie Gelakosky. It was not the most well-known track in the lower half of Michigan, and there were times when the race times were pushed back, waiting for participants to show up.
Not sure of the official closing year, but the track lasted through the 1960s and may have closed in the 70s, possibly the 80s. If someone who used to frequent the old B&L has any info on its permanent shut down, let us know!
Meantime, a visit and exploration wouldn’t be out of the question. Make sure you heed any “no trespassing” signs, just in case...