In 1950 Chester Mysliwiec and family started a racing tradition. Berlin Raceway, as he named it, has seen it all through the years. From its humble dirt track beginnings, Berlin Raceway, now a 7/16 mile paved oval with 13-degree banking in the turns and 9 degree banking on the straightaways, has grown into one of the premier short tracks in America.
Berlin Raceway has one of the strongest fan bases for grass roots racing in the nation. Berlin has packed in thousands of race fans a year for over 50 years. More than 5 million race fans have spent their Saturday nights at this legendary track.
Not only have race fans of all ages enjoyed the track, but drivers like Tim Steele, Jack Sprague and Bob Senneker have honed their driving skills on what Johnny Benson Jr. claims as "one of the most difficult tracks in the country."
In 2001, the West Michigan Whitecaps purchased the track and invested funds in the infrastructure, building new restrooms, a new sound system, new private party areas, new catch fence and other amenities to make Berlin Raceway not only the premier facility in the Midwest, but also the most fan-friendly. The racing hasn't suffered either. With partners like NASCAR driver Johnny Benson, Berlin Raceway has kept the racing extremely competitive and exciting. Celebrity drivers such as NASCAR stars Tony Stewart, Michael Waltrip, Bobby Labonte, Kenny Schrader, Kyle Busch and Ryan Newman have joined Benson in racing at Berlin. The goal of Berlin Raceway is to continue to provide exciting racing and an affordable experience in a clean, safe environment.
In the fall of 2008, the West Michigan Whitecaps sold the lease of Berlin Raceway to successful businessman and race team owner, Michael Blackmer. Blackmer, who owned numerous race teams at Berlin Raceway, Kalamazoo Speedway, ASA, CRA, and more will transition to track ownership in 2009. Improvements have already been made to the tracks infield, with a brand new make-ready chute, tech area, and more to come.
Blackmer promoted Berlin Raceway until the end of the 2011 racing season when the leased was then purchased by DBD Ventures, led by Don Dewitt. Mike Burlsey and Kurt Dietrich will co-promote the raceway in the 2012 racing season.
No Items found.
No Items found.