A historic NASCAR track was on the verge of demolition. Now, a community's outcry and a $4 million deal could bring it back to life. The fight for Greenville-Pickens Speedway isn't over yet.

“Pickens County [South Carolina] leaders voted against the demolition of this historic Greenville-Pickens Speedway, although the fate of the racetrack is not yet set in the stone,” stated WYFF News 4.

With the news of the potential demolition simmering in 2022 and the proposal for an industrial park brewing over the site in early 2026, the guardians of the speedway had come a long way. And keeping the track intact will go a long way in preserving NASCAR history.

The track hosted the NASCAR Cup series from 1955 to 1956 and then from 1958 to 1971, after being opened in 1940 as a half-mile dirt track. It was owned by the Blackwell family in 1955.

Many racing legends have competed on its track over the years. One such name is Tasha Porter Kummer. She was the first woman to win a Late Model race ever. And she won it over this very Greenville-Pickens Speedway. 

In fact, Kummer was one of the active protestors who came forward to invite investors to step in so that this demolition could be stopped. “We really, honestly need some investors, a group that is willing to invest in Greenville-Pickens Speedway. And I know that it can be a huge success.”

And There Might Be Some Hope For the Track

A potential buyer has emerged. Jackie Manley is believed to have the contract for the speedway. He is negotiating a $4 million purchase deal to take over the property and restore operations “as soon as possible."

“The old days there, just bring it back, all the people, their kids get the kids, and that’s what it’s all about, you know. That’s how the sport grows, so yeah, get it back to where it was in the heyay,” shared Manley when asked about his vision for the historic track with Frontstretch.

Even if the purchase takes place, the speedway is a long way from being race worthy. Significant upgrades will be needed to the track and the stands.

With an investor now involved, the speedway has a chance to be restored to its former condition.

Read more at the RFK Racing Digest!

Written by

Somadhand Das

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar