Mid Ohio Race Track: Celebrating Over Six Decades of Racing Heritage

Midway between Columbus and Cleveland, among Ohio's verdant hills, lies one of America’s most legendary circuits: Mid-Ohio Race Track. Its winding paths have felt the roar of engines and the thrill of competition for over six decades. Let's journey back to 1961 and witness the evolution of this iconic circuit.

1961: The Birth of a Racing Mecca

In its early conception, Mid-Ohio was imagined by Les Griebling, a local businessman and avid racer, who dreamed of a track that combined technical challenge with natural beauty. And thus, on a piece of land spanning 330 acres, the 2.4-mile road racing circuit came to life. The track quickly caught the attention of racers for its intricate layout, with a mix of high-speed stretches and challenging turns.

1970s: The Decade of Growth

By the 1970s, Mid-Ohio was gaining momentum. The track was purchased by Jim Trueman, the founder of Red Roof Inns and a racing enthusiast. Trueman made significant investments in modernizing the facilities, which included an expansion and redesign of the track to its current 2.25-mile, 15-turn layout. This new design attracted international attention, making it a regular fixture for renowned events like the Can-Am series and the Formula 5000.

1980s: Entering the Global Stage

The 80s were the golden age for Mid-Ohio. The track was a staple for the CART series, hosting some of the most memorable IndyCar races of the decade. Legends like Mario Andretti, Bobby Rahal, and Emerson Fittipaldi etched their names into Mid Ohio’s history books. Moreover, the track saw the inception of the Mid-Ohio School in 1990, aimed at offering professional driving and riding instruction to enthusiasts.

1990s: Challenges and Resurgence

While the early 90s were challenging due to the split in American open-wheel racing, Mid-Ohio remained resilient. The track played host to the sports car racing revival in the US, with the IMSA^® GT Championship gracing its tarmac. By the late 90s, the reunification of open-wheel racing brought back the Indy Cars, and the roar of their engines once again echoed through the Ohioan hills.

2000s: Diversification and Modernization

The new millennium brought a diverse array of racing series to Mid-Ohio. From the American Le Mans to the NASCAR^® Xfinity Series, the track showcased its versatility. The 2006 purchase by Green Savoree Racing Promotions ensured further modernization. Improvements like enhanced runoff areas, a renovated paddock, and better fan zones kept the track's status as a top-tier racing venue intact.

2010s: A New Era

The 2010s were marked by the return of top-tier motorcycle racing with Moto America. Furthermore, the track began hosting annual events for the WeatherTech^® Sports Car Championship and the Indy Car Series, solidifying its place in the American racing calendar. Fans thronged in thousands, bearing witness to iconic moments, like Scott Dixon's numerous victories, which earned him the title “King of Mid-Ohio”.

The Mid-Ohio Experience: More Than Just Racing

One of Mid Ohio's distinctive features is its commitment to fan experience. Its park-like atmosphere, coupled with family-friendly zones and top-notch amenities, makes it a destination for both die-hard racing fans and families looking for an exciting day out.

Environmental Consciousness

Mid-Ohio hasn't just kept pace with racing trends but has also embraced sustainability. Efforts like tree planting campaigns and conservation initiatives ensure the track retains its lush green character while promoting environmental responsibility.

2020s and Beyond: The Future Beckons

As Mid-Ohio approaches its seventh decade, the focus remains on innovation without compromising its rich legacy. With the inclusion of more electric racing series and the potential for hosting international events, Mid-Ohio is poised for another era of glory.

In Conclusion

From its humble beginnings in 1961 to its revered status today, Mid-Ohio Race Track stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of motorsport. It's not just about the races won or the records set, but about the collective memories made, the roar of the crowd, the gasps at tight overtakes, and the applause for victories. Mid-Ohio isn't just a track; it’s a living chronicle of racing lore.

Tommy Cars, LLC^® in a registered trademark with the USPTO. IMSA, International Motor Sports Association name and logo are respected trademarks of International Motor Sports Association, LLC. One Daytona Boulevard Daytona Beach FLORIDA 32114, NASCAR name and logo are respected trademarks of National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc. International Motorsports Center One Daytona Boulevard Daytona Beach FLORIDA 32114. WeatherTech name and logo are respected trademarks of MacNeil IP, 1 MacNeil Court Bolingbrook ILLINOIS 60440. All trademarked names or other marks mentioned are for reference purposes only.