Racers excited for the return of the Elkhart Grand Prix

ELKHART, Ind. – The annual Elkhart Grand Prix returns to downtown Elkhart this weekend.

Preston Taylor, a six-time Elkhart Grand Prix champion, returned to the downtown street circuit Friday, chasing his seventh win. Taylor said the appeal of the Elkhart course goes beyond his winning record — he cited the track's tight turns and unpredictable layout, which he said sets it apart from purpose-built kart circuits designed for more predictable racing.

The course includes a stretch where Taylor reaches speeds over 70 mph, generating enough g-force that he described feeling it push against him through the turns. He said the first turn after the starting line is especially demanding to navigate cleanly.

Taylor said that once on track, engine sound becomes his primary focus — monitoring it closely as an indicator of the kart's condition and performance, which he said is directly tied to his ability to compete and win.

The Elkhart Grand Prix continues through the weekend in downtown Elkhart, drawing drivers back year after year for a street-racing format organizers and competitors say offers a different challenge than traditional closed-circuit karting.

To learn more about the Elkhart Grand Prix, click here.