By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (Oct 21, 2025)
PLACERVILLE, Calif. — A high-octane opportunity is coming to El Dorado County.
Local racer and NASCAR star Kyle Larson will be at The Apex at Red Hawk in Placerville on Nov. 13, where ten top lap-time qualifiers will get to race him. Qualifying runs are open now through Nov. 12, and the event is free and open to the public. The next day Larson competes at the Hangtown 100 at Placerville Speedway, tying together a major weekend for El Dorado County motorsports. The promotion is hosted by Red Hawk Resort + Casino and Apex at Red Hawk, highlighting community, entertainment and local racing roots.
Red Hawk Resort + Casino and its indoor karting facility, The Apex at Red Hawk, are offering local fans the chance to race against NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson on Thursday, Nov. 13.
The promotion: From now until Wednesday, Nov. 12, participants at The Apex can post qualifying lap times. The fastest ten drivers will earn a spot to line up directly against Larson from 6–8 p.m. on Nov. 13. Admission to the event is free and open to the public.
“Hosting a hometown racing hero like Kyle Larson at The Apex is a thrill for both our guests and our team,” said Bryan deLugo, president and CEO of Red Hawk Resort + Casino.
“This event celebrates the spirit of competition, community, and entertainment that defines Red Hawk. Whether you’re here to race, watch, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, it’s going to be an unforgettable experience.”
Larson is no stranger to the region. The Elk Grove native first raced at nearby Placerville Speedway—located within the grounds of the El Dorado County Fairgrounds—and went on to national open-wheel and NASCAR success.
The timing is significant: On Nov. 14 and 15, the Hangtown 100 returns to Placerville Speedway, and Larson not only competes but is listed as a partner in the event’s promotion.
Key details for local fans
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Qualification Period: Immediately until Nov. 12 at The Apex at Red Hawk, Placerville.
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Event date/time: Thursday, Nov. 13 from 6 p.m.–8 p.m., The Apex. Admission free.
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Prize for top ten: Race alongside Larson—and participants receive a gift card from The Apex.
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Next day: Larson will race at Hangtown 100, Friday Nov. 14 & Saturday Nov. 15 at Placerville Speedway.
For El Dorado County residents and motorsport fans, the promotion offers a rare chance to compete alongside a top-tier national driver—and to connect with a hometown hero. It also positions Placerville and the El Dorado County Fairgrounds as a hub of regional motorsports entertainment. For The Apex and Red Hawk Resort, it deepens their presence as a destination for both fun and adrenaline in the foothills.
Insider tip
Participants should register their best lap time as early as possible, keep an eye on leaderboard updates at The Apex, and plan to arrive early on Nov. 13 to soak in the full event atmosphere. Families and spectators are welcome.
