NASCAR star Ryan Blaney has taken an exciting step by becoming a co-owner of Sharon Speedway, a historic 3/8-mile dirt oval located in Hartford, Ohio. Partnering with local racer and entrepreneur Will Thomas III, and supported by his father, Dave Blaney, Ryan aims to bring fresh energy and innovation to this legendary racetrack.
Fresh off his recent appearance at a major NASCAR event in Mexico, Blaney is leveraging his success on the national stage—having secured a playoff spot with Team Penske—to focus on revitalizing Sharon Speedway. His goal is to enhance the racing experience for both fans and drivers alike.
Operational Strategy and Vision from Afar
Although Blaney manages his new co-ownership responsibilities remotely from North Carolina, he has assembled a dedicated team in Ohio to oversee the day-to-day operations at Sharon Speedway. This setup allows him to guide the track’s strategic direction while ensuring smooth local management.
During a recent episode of the Team Blaney Podcast, Ryan shared his commitment to making the races more accessible and exciting for spectators. He asked,
“How do you make it affordable for people to come out and have a good time? And also, how do you get people to come out to your racetrack and compete?”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Driver
Enhancing Competition with Increased Purses and Fan Engagement
Beyond improving fan accessibility, Blaney is focused on attracting top racing talent by offering larger purses for events. This financial boost aims to raise the level of competition and draw more skilled drivers to Sharon Speedway, elevating the quality of racing on the dirt oval.
This approach reflects Blaney’s desire to nurture the local racing scene while ensuring that events are entertaining and rewarding for everyone involved.
Upcoming Appearances and Long-Term Impact
Blaney plans to be physically present at Sharon Speedway several times during the season, with a marquee modified race in June highlighted as a key event. His hands-on involvement underscores the sentimental importance the track holds for his family and his personal dedication to its success.
As Ryan Blaney embarks on this new venture, racing fans and participants eagerly anticipate the changes he will implement. His passion for motorsports and determination to innovate position Sharon Speedway for a promising future, potentially serving as a model for other local tracks across the country.