Motor Days

Nestled in the midst of tranquil farmland, on the edge of the village of Lexington, sits one of the most historic and exciting auto racing facilities in the country: the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

Every year, thousands of motorsports fans from across the U.S. flock to this paved, natural terrain road course. They come to watch some of the top professional drivers and riders in the world compete in national and international racing series, such as The Honda Indy 200 Presented by the 2027 CR-V Hybrid, an open-wheel event that is part of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES on July 3–5, celebrating America’s 250th birthday.

“This is a chance for Ohioans to see some of the best drivers in the world here in their own backyard,” Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course President Craig Rust says. “These are the same teams and cars which run in the Indy 500.”

Opened in 1962, the 2.4-mile track hosts a range of events, featuring amateur, club and professionals competing in motorcycle, sports car and vintage racing as well. A family-friendly environment where kids 12 and under get in free with a ticketed adult brings people back again and again.

“This is an internationally known course with a lot of elevation changes, making it a true test of skills,” Rust says. “Fans have the option of finding a spot on the natural hillsides to watch or purchasing a grandstand seat.”

“Once fans see vehicles racing at close to 180 miles per hour down our backstretch, they want to come back for more!”

The Mid-Ohio School offers driving and riding courses taught by former racing professionals, with experience in Formula One and IndyCar, and hundreds of combined wins in many other styles of racing.

“Their wealth of knowledge is off the charts, and that’s what makes us special,” School Director Sonny Gee says. Established in 1993, the school offers a wide variety of courses, ranging from teen defensive driving to three levels of high performance.

“Teen Defensive Driving is our No. 1 course, and it saves lives,” Gee says. “We educate people on what to do in certain situations, such as driving in bad weather or loss of control recovery skills. We do teach people how to race, but also teach them the craft of racing, so they have the tools to take it to the next level if they choose.” Some students have gone on to compete locally and well beyond, with The Mid-Ohio School having graduated many national champions.

On the Scene with Craig Rust

President Craig Rust has been steering the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course forward since 2011.

What does it mean to Mid-Ohio to be a part of the community?

It’s important to us to be good corporate citizens. We provide seasonal employment in food services, security and ticketing, as well as medical and fire safety.

What is going to be a can’t-miss event at the track in 2026?

The Honda Indy 200 is the one that everyone gravitates to. Over 50,000 fans have attended Indy races here in the past! But for locals, I recommend coming out to see our vintage sports car and motorcycle racing as well.

Who are the most famous people who have visited Mid-Ohio?

Many big names in racing — Roger Penske, Mario Andretti, Bobby Rahal and Jackie Stewart. NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. and his sons, Bill Jr. and current CEO Jim France, have visited. NBA legend Michael Jordan was here because he owned a motorcycle team, and actor and film director Paul Newman raced here many times under a secret name.

What’s your top local dining spot?

There are a lot of great restaurants in this area, but Hudson & Essex is my favorite. It has a nice bar, really good food and a great environment.

Racing Soon

Richland County’s thriving motorsports scene will receive an extra surge of electricity when the iconic Mansfield Speedway reopens for dirt-track racing, beginning May 2 with the Comeback Classic. First opened in 1959, the historic racetrack was acquired in June 2025 by Matt Tifft and wife Jordan after several years of vacancy. Matt is a successful entrepreneur and professional stock car racing driver in his own right, known for his previous racing career in NASCAR and being the youngest team owner in NASCAR Cup Series history.

The revitalized Mansfield Speedway will feature new grandstands, a jumbotron, seating, camping, a beer garden and a children’s play area, and is slated to host more than 100 event days per year, including concerts and community festivals. “Think country Coachella meets horsepower heaven,” Chief Marketing Officer Caleb Burns says. “Where die-hard racers and everyday thrill-seekers unite to raise hell, make memories and feel the ground shake.”

By Aaron Blankenship