Several NASCAR Cup drivers, including Dale Earnhardt Jr., Ken Schrader, Tony Stewart, and Kevin Harvick, have invested in preserving short tracks across the United States. Most recently, Ryan Blaney has added his name to this group by purchasing a one-third ownership stake in Sharon Speedway, a historic dirt track located in eastern Ohio. This investment reflects Blaney’s commitment to supporting grassroots racing, which he credits for shaping his career from a young age.
Connection to Sharon Speedway Runs Through Blaney’s Family
The iconic Sharon Speedway holds special significance for Ryan Blaney beyond its reputation in the motorsports community. His father, Dave Blaney, already owns a one-third share of the speedway, making Ryan’s involvement a continuation of the family’s legacy. While Ryan is only 31 years old and plans to continue competing in NASCAR for many more years, investing in the track is a way to honor the place where he and his grandfather spent countless hours learning the sport and cultivating his driving skills.
Grassroots Racing’s Role in Developing Future Racing Talent
Blaney emphasized the importance of short tracks as the foundation for all types of racing, including NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula 1, and sports cars. He explained that these grassroots venues are critical not only for drivers but for mechanics, crew chiefs, and engineers, who often begin their careers at local tracks. Blaney stated,
“It’s really, really healthy because without the grassroots level there is no NASCAR, there is no IndyCar, nothing like that. So, trying to keep that in a good spot is really important.” —Ryan Blaney, NASCAR driver
This perspective reflects his belief that maintaining and growing these tracks ensures the future vitality of the entire motorsports ecosystem.
Inspired by Fellow Drivers Committed to Grassroots Racing
Ryan Blaney acknowledges the influence of other prominent drivers who have invested in short tracks and grassroots racing efforts. In particular, he credits Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kevin Harvick for their leadership and dedication to preserving these formative racing venues. Blaney remarked,
“With Kevin and Dale really doing a great job with that, I think it’s just part of trying to keep that side as healthy as it can be and kind of try to do the best,” —Ryan Blaney, NASCAR driver
He also reflected on the importance of supporting the next generation of racers, saying,
“Who’s the next person that’s going to be in NASCAR in 10, 15, 20 years? This is kind of where it starts and you just want that stuff to do well because a lot of people helped you out when I was younger at that level and you try to pay it back.”
Blaney further expressed his motivation, stating,
“I’m fortunate enough to be able to try to make an impact on that side and you just hope to help it for the future generations,” —Ryan Blaney, NASCAR driver
Impact on the Future of American Motorsports
By joining the ranks of influential drivers investing in short tracks, Ryan Blaney demonstrates his commitment to preserving the grassroots roots of American motorsports. The decline in the number of short tracks over recent decades has threatened the development pipeline for racing talent, but investments like Blaney’s in Sharon Speedway aim to halt and reverse that trend. This move is expected to bolster the local racing community in Ohio and serve as a model for preserving short tracks nationwide, helping ensure the sport’s longevity for future competitors and fans alike.
