HERMON — Speedway 95 is under new ownership. Newburgh native Ricky Craven, best known for his win at Darlington Motor Speedway in 2003, is the new proprietor.
The track announced Sunday that the NASCAR star is the new owner, after being family-owned and operated since the 1960s.
Craven reportedly is looking to upgrade the track, with renovations tentatively planned for the track and surrounding areas in the next few years.
For the past 15 years, the track has been owned by Delano “Del” Merritt, who started at the track in 1968, and worked his way up through various positions over the years.
Ricky Craven was born in Newburgh in 1966, and graduated from Hampden Academy some years later. He began racing at the age of 15 at Unity Raceway, and won the track championship at Wiscasset Speedway, along with Rookie of the Year in 1984.
In a statement, Craven said, “Today is a monumental day for me and my family. I have been friends with Del for decades and admired the dedication he has given for his track, team, and all associated with Speedway 95. I am dedicating the rest of my life to a track that has been part of my DNA for many years. Both my Mom and Dad won races at Speedway 95 in the 70’s. I have the honor of receiving the checkered flag and a black flag from Del during my racing at Speedway 95 in a strange way, I benefitted from both. Now Del and I can say we are forever connected through Speedway 95.”
According to the statement by the track, the racing season will continue as planned, running through October 12th.