Bandoleros
Bandoleros are where the next generation of Wall Stadium champions learn their craft. These small, sealed cars are designed for young drivers ages 8 to 16. The engines are locked down so nobody has a power advantage. It is pure driver development in a safe, supervised environment, on the same high-banked oval that launched Martin Truex Jr. and Ray Evernham. Do not underestimate these kids. They are strapped in, buckled down, and racing for real.
What Are These Cars
A Bandolero is a small, lightweight race car built by INEX specifically for young drivers. It has a sealed Briggs and Stratton engine that produces modest but real horsepower, enough to teach racecraft without overwhelming a young competitor. The chassis is purpose-built for safety with a full roll cage and the same caliber of safety equipment the adult drivers use, scaled for smaller frames.
The Car
- INEX-approved Bandolero chassis and body
- Sealed Briggs and Stratton engine. No modifications allowed
- Engine seals must remain intact at all times
- No modifications to the chassis beyond what INEX allows
- Spec exhaust system required
Driver Safety
- Full roll cage built to INEX specifications
- Five-point safety harness required
- Youth-rated racing helmet with current safety certification
- HANS device or approved youth head-and-neck restraint mandatory
- Fire-resistant suit, gloves, and shoes required
- Mandatory driver orientation before the first race
Who Can Race
- Drivers must be between 8 and 16 years old
- Parental consent and signed waiver required
- Drivers under 12 complete additional orientation laps before competing
- Race director can pull any driver who is not ready to race safely
- Pace laps before every race so drivers can settle in
What to Watch For
The composure. These kids are 8 to 16 years old, strapped into a race car on a 30-degree banked oval, racing wheel to wheel. Watch how they handle restarts and manage traffic. Some of them will be racing Modifieds before you know it.