Salem Speedway is changing hands for the first time in 23 years.
Owen and Beverly Thompson, who have owned Salem Speedway since 1995, have sold the 0.555-mile high-banked southern Indiana oval to Louisville businessman and ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards owner and driver Bo LeMastus, accorcing to a Facebook post by LeMastus on Sunday morning.
An official announcement is expected today.
LeMastus is also driving in the NASCAR Truck Series and finished 15th in Friday’s race at Chicagoland Speedway, as heard in the Louisville market on WSLM 97.9 FM.
He is also the CEO of Crosley Radio.
LeMastus noted in his social media post Sunday morning that he will be partnering in the purchase with Bill and Will Kimmell.
He said he plans to make no changes to the racing form at the track and will continue to work with Richard and Robin Deaton.
The speedway was originally built in 1947 and has seen major drivers cut their teeth at the track – including AJ Foyt, Mario Andretti, Al Unser and many others who went on to fame in Indy Racing. Jeff Gordon also took a turn on the track before becoming a NASCAR star.
WSLM Radio had a racing team there for many year and broadcast the race each week.
“I just wanted to confirm that I did buy the Salem Motor Speedway from Beverly and Owen (Thompson)”, LeMastus said in his post on Sunday morning. “Along with my partners Bill and Will Kimmel. Just wanted to stop the rumors. There will be no changes to the racing form. Richard Deaton and Robin will remain on board.”
The ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards returns to the high-banks of Salem Speedway for the Kentuckiana Ford Dealers Fall Classic on Saturday night, September 15.
