Press Day Invite: Springfield Mile — Photo/Video & Exclusive Interview Access

 

What:

Pre-event Press Day for the Springfield Mile, widely regarded as the world’s fastest flat track motorcycle race. First run in 1937, the Springfield Mile became an iconic championship decider “back in the day,” and today stands as a centerpiece of the 16 round American Flat Track (AFT) Championship season.

 

 

When:

Thursday, August 28, 10:00AM-12:00PM CST

Recommended arrival: 15–30 minutes early for check in and safety briefing.

 

Where:

Illinois State Fairgrounds – Springfield Mile

801 E Sangamon Avenue, Springfield, IL  62706

Enter Gate 7, proceed through tunnel under track to infield

 

Who (Interview/Photo Ops):

Chase Saathoff (AFT Singles – Rick Ware Racing / Honda)

Key Win: Captured the AFT Singles win at the Texas Half-Mile, marking his first-career victory.

Grand Slam Status: Just achieved the AFT Singles Grand Slam, having now won in Mile, Half-Mile, TT, and Short Track disciplines—a rare accomplishment American Flat Track.

2024 Breakthrough: Before that first win, he was still chasing a maiden victory, but went on to add DuQuoin Mile and Peoria TT wins and tally six runner-up finishes among nine podiums American Flat Track+1

 

Dallas Daniels (Mission AFT SuperTwins – Estenson Racing Yamaha)

Season Wins: Clinched the DuQuoin “Magic Mile” in 2025 MyRacePass+8roadracingworld.com+8Cycle News+8, and captured the Jackpine Gypsies Super TT at the Sturgis Rally Cycle News+14roadracingworld.com+14h-dmediakit.com+14.

2024 Form: Recorded a breakout blowout win at the Orange County Half-Mile Cycle News+5American Flat Track+5Estenson Racing+5 and a milestone Lima Half-Mile victory, marking Yamaha’s first win in that event Cycle News+6SPEED SPORT+6Monster Energy+6. 

Media Notables: Known for an ongoing streak of podium finishes across events Cycle News+1.

Backstory: Gained early attention by winning the Horizon Award in both flat track and roadracing before age 16 American Flat Track+1.

Takeaway: A consistent contender with headline-grabbing performances in marquee races—ideal for feature highlights.

 

Visuals & Coverage Opportunities:

On track high speed laps / bike walk arounds

• Portraits & lifestyle content with featured riders

•  B roll from pit lane, tires/fuel, and set up

•  Historic context & color from longtime Springfield Mile personnel

•  Drone permitted with proper licensing and permissions

 

Why it matters:

The Springfield Mile is an American racing institution est. in 1937

• It’s part of the AFT’s 16 race national championship, drawing elite riders and major teams.

• The mile oval speed and proximity deliver compelling visuals and great storylines for TV, digital, and social.

 

Schedule (subject to change):

10:00 AM -  Media check in & safety briefing

10:15 AM -  Rider availability (one on ones & scrums)

10:40 AM -  On track running / photo & video access windows

11:30 AM] - Additional interviews / specialty shots

12:00 PM - Wrap-up

 

Access & Safety:

Closed toe shoes required; long pants recommended.

• High visibility vests provided; remain behind hot track barriers unless escorted.

• Track radio channel and safety contact provided at check in.

• Photographers: please bring long glass if possible

Credentials & Parking:

Please RSVP by Monday, August 25 for credentials.

• Parking: Enter Gate 7 to infield parking; media check in at Infield just after tunnel exit

• Same day credential pickup available with ID and outlet affiliation. Prefer pre-registration for ease and efficiency of checking in

 

Please include outlet, names and roles, gear notes (photo/video), and any special requests.

On Site Contact (day of): Name, mobile number (text preferred for time sensitive requests)

 

Coverage Guidelines:

Video & social: Tag @Springfield Mile, @VisitSpringfield, @ American Flat Track on FB and IG and use #springfieldmile #visitspringfield #springfieldil #flattrack #aft #americanflattrack #dirttrack #progressiveaft

 

Rights: Non-exclusive news use for coverage of the Springfield Mile and AFT; commercial reuse requires written approval.

Please share links/clips post event so we can amplify your coverage.

 

About the Springfield Mile:

First contested in 1937, the Springfield Mile has long been a touchstone of American motorcycle racing, known for its blistering speed, drafting duels, and tradition. Today it remains a flagship stop on the American Flat Track championship calendar and a bucket list event for riders and fans alike.