The original Cornfield Classic was staged in 1919 as an international motorcycle race. Located on the outskirts of Marion, it was a 200-mile World’s Championship and unofficially marked the return of motorcycle racing following WWI. More than 15,000 fans came from all over, lining the streets to watch Harleys, Indians and other motorcycles speed around the dirt track.
In 1920, the winners of the Marion International Motorcycle Race took a victory lap, around the Cornfield Classic track, holding a pig. Yes, with a pig! These winners were nicknamed “The Hog Boys,” and that is the first time a Harley Davidson was referred to as a “Hog.” The nickname stuck. History was made.
Cornfield Classic Evolves to Hog Daze
In 2010, the Cornfield Classic was renamed Hog Daze and evolved into a motorcycle rally and music festival. Moved to Ballard Field in Marion, this event expanded upon the Cornfield Classic race to include motorcycle stunt shows, a motorcycle rodeo, burn out competition, The Miss Hog Daze contest, a full schedule of live bands, plus vendors and a swap meet.
Hog Daze Reverts to Cornfield Classic
In 2023, The Indiana Motorcycle Preservation Society in Marion made a decision to return Hog Daze to its roots, reinstating the name Cornfield Classic. This event returns to a focus on racing with a series of time trials. At the same time, this event is moving back to the original rural location. When we say cornfield, we mean the original early 1900s route, along county roads, where cornfields grow in Indiana. These roads include Alabama Avenue, 38th Street, Troy Avenue and County Road 412. In addition to moving the location and returning to the original Cornfield Classic name, the dates have changed from August to early June.
There are plenty of places to stay or to camp while you are here for the Cornfield Classic. Our wide range of restaurants include steakhouses, pub grub, nostalgic diners and fast food. Subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter, and keep informed of other classic and cool motorcycle events.
