If you’re a fan of stock car racing, then you’ve likely heard of the Albany-Saratoga Speedway. Located in Malta, New York, this track has been home to some of the most exciting races in the Northeast. But have you ever wondered who actually owns the speedway?
The answer to that question is a bit more complicated than you might think. While there is a clear owner of the property, there are also several other parties involved in the operation of the track. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Albany-Saratoga Speedway, take a look at some of the most memorable races, and delve into the current ownership structure of this iconic track.
The History Behind Albany-Saratoga Speedway
The Albany-Saratoga Speedway has a rich history dating back to the 1960s. Originally known as Malta Speedway, the track was built in 1965 by promoter Bill Randall. It quickly became a favorite among fans and drivers alike, hosting races featuring some of the biggest names in racing. Over the years, the speedway has undergone several changes in ownership and management, but it has remained a popular destination for stock car racing enthusiasts.
One of the most significant events in the history of Albany-Saratoga Speedway occurred in 1994, when Howard Commander purchased the track from then-owner Charlie Trombley. Commander made several improvements to the facility, including the construction of a new grandstand and a paved pit area. These changes helped to elevate the speedway to new heights, attracting larger crowds and more talented drivers.
The Early Years
- In 1965, promoter Bill Randall built the Malta Speedway, which would later become Albany-Saratoga Speedway.
- The track quickly gained a reputation for hosting exciting and competitive races.
- Over the years, some of the biggest names in stock car racing competed at Albany-Saratoga Speedway.
A New Era Begins
In 1994, Howard Commander purchased the speedway from Charlie Trombley, ushering in a new era of growth and development for the track. Under Commander’s leadership, the speedway underwent several improvements and expansions, including the construction of a new grandstand and paved pit area.
- Howard Commander purchased Albany-Saratoga Speedway in 1994.
- Commander made several improvements to the track, including the construction of a new grandstand.
- These changes helped to elevate the speedway to new heights, attracting larger crowds and more talented drivers.
Today, Albany-Saratoga Speedway remains one of the most popular destinations for stock car racing enthusiasts in the Northeast. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, the speedway is sure to continue thrilling fans and drivers for many years to come.
The Rise of Stock Car Racing in Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Stock car racing has come a long way since the early days of the Albany-Saratoga Speedway. In the beginning, racing was done on dirt tracks, and it was a sport that was dominated by moonshiners who used their modified cars to outrun the police. But as the sport grew in popularity, it attracted more professional drivers and became more organized.
The Albany-Saratoga Speedway played a key role in the rise of stock car racing in the Northeast. The track was established in 1965 and quickly became a favorite among racing fans. It was one of the few tracks in the region that offered weekly racing, which helped to build a loyal fan base. Over the years, the speedway has hosted some of the biggest names in stock car racing, including Brett Hearn, Kenny Tremont, and Bobby Varin.
The Early Days of Stock Car Racing
The origins of stock car racing can be traced back to the days of prohibition. Moonshiners would modify their cars to outrun the police, and soon they began racing against each other to see who had the fastest car. As the sport grew in popularity, it began to attract more professional drivers, and in the 1940s, the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) was established.
The Impact of Albany-Saratoga Speedway
The Albany-Saratoga Speedway has had a significant impact on the world of stock car racing. It has helped to build a loyal fan base in the Northeast, and it has played host to some of the biggest names in the sport. The speedway has also been a breeding ground for young talent, with many drivers starting their careers at the track.
- Brett Hearn, one of the most successful drivers in the history of the Albany-Saratoga Speedway, got his start at the track in the 1970s.
- Kenny Tremont, another local legend, has won more than 500 feature races at the track over the course of his career.
- Bobby Varin, who has been racing at the track since the 1980s, has won multiple championships and is considered one of the best drivers in the Northeast.
The Albany-Saratoga Speedway continues to be a popular destination for racing fans, and its impact on the world of stock car racing is undeniable. From its early days as a dirt track to its current status as one of the premier tracks in the Northeast, the speedway has played a key role in the rise of stock car racing in the region.
Exploring the Different Divisions of Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Albany-Saratoga Speedway is one of the most popular racing venues in the Northeast. With a rich history that dates back to the early 1960s, the speedway has attracted some of the biggest names in racing. Today, the speedway features a variety of racing divisions, each with its own unique characteristics and fan base. Here’s a closer look at some of the different divisions of Albany-Saratoga Speedway:
Limited Sportsman, Pro Stock, Street Stock, and 4-Cylinder are the four main divisions at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. The Limited Sportsman division is designed for drivers who are looking to make their way up the ranks of stock car racing. Pro Stock is a more advanced division that features some of the top drivers in the Northeast. Street Stock is a division that focuses on affordable, grassroots racing, and the 4-Cylinder division is a great option for drivers who are just starting out in the sport.
Limited Sportsman Division
- The Limited Sportsman division is known for its close, competitive racing.
- The cars in this division are designed to be affordable and easy to maintain.
- Drivers in this division must adhere to strict rules and regulations to ensure a level playing field.
Pro Stock Division
Pro Stock is the premier division at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. These cars are highly advanced and capable of reaching speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour. The drivers in this division are some of the best in the Northeast and compete in races that are longer and more grueling than those in other divisions.
Street Stock Division
- Street Stock is a division that focuses on grassroots racing and affordability.
- The cars in this division are based on production vehicles and must meet strict regulations.
- Drivers in this division often have a lot of experience racing at local tracks and are looking to move up the ranks.
4-Cylinder Division
- The 4-Cylinder division is designed for drivers who are just starting out in the sport.
- The cars in this division are affordable and easy to maintain, making it a great option for beginners.
- Drivers in this division often have little to no experience racing and are looking to learn the ropes of the sport.
Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or just getting started, Albany-Saratoga Speedway has something for everyone. From the high-octane thrills of Pro Stock to the affordable grassroots racing of Street Stock, there’s no shortage of excitement and competition at this iconic racing venue. So come out and experience the thrill of stock car racing at Albany-Saratoga Speedway today!
The Drivers who Made History in Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Albany-Saratoga Speedway has seen many drivers come and go over the years, but some have left their mark on the track with their incredible performances. These drivers have made history and have become legends in the racing world. Let’s take a closer look at some of these drivers and their achievements on the track.
The first driver we will highlight is Brett Hearn. Hearn is one of the most successful drivers in Albany-Saratoga Speedway history. He has won over 130 feature races and 15 track championships. He is also a six-time winner of the Super DIRT Week and has won several other major races throughout his career. Hearn has been inducted into the Northeast Dirt Modified Hall of Fame and the DIRT Motorsports Hall of Fame. His success on the track has earned him the nickname “The Jet.”
The Legendary Drivers of Albany-Saratoga Speedway:
- Kenny Tremont Jr. is another driver who has made a name for himself at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. Tremont has won over 100 feature races and has claimed the track championship five times. He is known for his skill on the track and his ability to make daring passes. Tremont has also won several other major races throughout his career.
- J.R. Heffner is another driver who has had a successful career at Albany-Saratoga Speedway. Heffner has won over 50 feature races and has claimed the track championship three times. He is known for his consistency and his ability to finish races. Heffner has also won several other major races throughout his career.
The Rising Stars of Albany-Saratoga Speedway:
In addition to the legendary drivers, Albany-Saratoga Speedway has also produced some rising stars in recent years. One of these drivers is Peter Britten. Britten has quickly made a name for himself at Albany-Saratoga Speedway, winning several feature races and finishing in the top five in the track championship standings. He is known for his aggressive driving style and his ability to compete at a high level.
Another rising star at Albany-Saratoga Speedway is Marc Johnson. Johnson has had a successful career at the track, winning several feature races and finishing in the top five in the track championship standings. He is known for his consistency and his ability to make his way through traffic. Johnson is definitely a driver to watch in the coming years.
In conclusion, Albany-Saratoga Speedway has been home to some of the greatest drivers in racing history. From the legendary drivers who have made their mark on the track to the rising stars who are just starting their careers, Albany-Saratoga Speedway has seen it all. These drivers have left their mark on the track and have cemented their place in racing history.
The Most Memorable Races in Albany-Saratoga Speedway
Racing fans are always eager to witness unforgettable events on the track. The Albany-Saratoga Speedway has had its fair share of historic races that will always be remembered by fans. Here are some of the most unforgettable races that took place at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway.
The first race that comes to mind is the 2017 “Brett Hearn’s Big Show 9.” The race was a tribute to the legendary driver Brett Hearn who retired after 201The event was filled with excitement as fans came out in droves to see their favorite driver race for the last time. Brett Hearn himself put up a great performance, finishing in the top five.
The Best Races at Albany-Saratoga Speedway
- Malta Octoberfast: The Malta Octoberfast is an annual event held at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway. The event is famous for its big payouts and great racing. In 2021, the event paid out over $400,000 in prize money, making it one of the most lucrative races in the country.
- Super DIRT Week: The Super DIRT Week is another annual event that takes place at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway. The week-long event attracts drivers and fans from all over the country. The event features some of the most exciting racing in the world, making it a must-see for all racing fans.
The Most Shocking Finishes at Albany-Saratoga Speedway
There have been many shocking finishes at the Albany-Saratoga Speedway, but the most memorable one has to be the finish of the 2014 “Brett Hearn’s Big Show 6.” The race was down to the wire with multiple lead changes in the final laps. The race ended in a photo finish with Brett Hearn beating out Stewart Friesen by only 0.008 seconds. The crowd went wild as Hearn celebrated his victory.
The Albany-Saratoga Speedway is a must-visit for all racing fans. With its rich history and unforgettable races, it is sure to provide fans with a great experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness some of the best racing in the world.
Behind the Scenes: The People who Keep Albany-Saratoga Speedway Running
Albany-Saratoga Speedway is a popular dirt track racing facility located in Malta, New York. However, what many people may not realize is that it takes a lot of hard work and dedication from a team of individuals to keep the facility running smoothly. From the owner to the grounds crew, each person plays a vital role in ensuring that the races are successful.
So, who are the people behind the scenes that keep Albany-Saratoga Speedway running? Let’s take a closer look.
The Owner: Lyle DeVore
Lyle DeVore is the owner of Albany-Saratoga Speedway and has been involved in racing for over 50 years. DeVore is a respected figure in the racing community and is known for his passion for the sport. He is actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the speedway and is always looking for ways to improve the fan experience.
The Track Officials
- The Race Director: The race director is responsible for overseeing the race and ensuring that it runs smoothly. They work closely with the drivers and pit crews to ensure that everyone follows the rules and regulations.
- The Flagman: The flagman is responsible for waving the flags to signal the start and end of the race, as well as any caution flags that may need to be waved during the race.
- The Scorer: The scorer keeps track of the positions of each driver throughout the race and ensures that the final results are accurate.
The Grounds Crew
The Grounds Crew is responsible for maintaining the facility and ensuring that it is ready for each race. This includes everything from mowing the grass to repairing any damage to the track. The grounds crew works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that the facility is safe and ready for the drivers and fans.
Without the hard work and dedication of these individuals, Albany-Saratoga Speedway would not be the successful facility that it is today. So, the next time you attend a race at Albany-Saratoga Speedway, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of the people behind the scenes who make it all possible.
The Future of Albany-Saratoga Speedway: What’s in Store?
Albany-Saratoga Speedway has been providing thrilling racing action for over 50 years. As a staple of the local racing scene, it’s important to consider what the future holds for this beloved track.
The speedway has made significant improvements in recent years, including renovations to the grandstands and track surface. But what’s next for Albany-Saratoga Speedway?
New Facilities
The future of Albany-Saratoga Speedway may include new facilities to enhance the fan experience. One possibility is the addition of luxury suites for VIP guests. Another is the construction of a new pit area to improve safety and efficiency during races.
These additions would not only benefit the fans and racers, but they could also attract larger events and bring more attention to the speedway.
Alternative Events
While stock car racing will always be at the heart of Albany-Saratoga Speedway, there’s potential for the track to host other types of events. Alternative events such as demolition derbies, concerts, and festivals could attract a wider range of audiences and generate more revenue for the speedway.
- Demolition derbies could provide a fun and exciting atmosphere for families and car enthusiasts alike.
- Concerts and festivals could draw in crowds who may not have previously been interested in racing.
Technology Upgrades
To stay ahead of the competition and provide the best experience possible for fans and racers, Albany-Saratoga Speedway could benefit from technology upgrades. One possibility is the addition of virtual reality experiences to give fans a new perspective on the races.
Another possibility is the use of advanced data analytics to improve race performance and provide valuable insights to racers and teams.
As Albany-Saratoga Speedway looks towards the future, it’s clear that there are many exciting possibilities in store. Whether it’s through new facilities, alternative events, or technology upgrades, this historic speedway is sure to continue providing thrilling racing action for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Albany-Saratoga Speedway?
Howard Commander is the current owner of Albany-Saratoga Speedway. Commander purchased the speedway from the previous owners in 2004, and since then, has invested heavily in upgrading the facilities, improving the fan experience, and attracting top-notch racing talent to compete at the track.
What types of racing take place at Albany-Saratoga Speedway?
Albany-Saratoga Speedway hosts a variety of racing events throughout the season, including modifieds, sportsman, pro stocks, street stocks, and 4-cylinders. The track is known for its high-speed racing action and exciting finishes, which draw large crowds of fans from around the region.
What are the track rules for fans and competitors?
Albany-Saratoga Speedway has a number of rules in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all fans and competitors. Some of the key rules include no alcohol or drugs allowed on the premises, no weapons, no smoking in the grandstands, and no pets (with the exception of service animals). For competitors, there are rules around car specifications, safety equipment, and conduct on the track.
How can I purchase tickets to attend a race at Albany-Saratoga Speedway?
Tickets for Albany-Saratoga Speedway races can be purchased online through the track’s website, or in person at the ticket booth on race day. Ticket prices vary depending on the event and seating area, so be sure to check the website for the latest information. Additionally, the track offers special discounts and promotions throughout the season, so keep an eye out for those as well.