From Mercer Raceway Park
Mercer, PA (December 31, 2010) – With the 2011 season fast approaching, Mercer Raceway Park announced the celebration of its 60th Anniversary Season.
The work didn’t stop when the checkered flag flew in 2010, as the close of the season brought a host of changes to the storied track, including improvements to the track facility and management changes.
Kristin Swartzlander, a graduate of Columbia University and sports public relations and marketing professional, has been named Promoter, while Bill Altman, who purchased the track in April 2010, formed a partnership with Gregg McCandless. McCandless currently serves as President of Bill McCandless Ford and is a Mercer, PA native. Diane Brest has also been hired as Concessions Manager. Frank Benic will continue to serve as General Manager, working closely with the track’s experienced crew and employees.
“We are excited to welcome Kristin, Gregg and Diane on board for the 2011 season,” Altman said. “Their professional experience, combined with a passion for dirt track racing and knowledge of the local community, will help us create an exciting 2011 season for our fans and partners.”
Many improvements have been planned for the facility, including a number that have already been completed like the widening of the track with additional clay, installation of a pulling track in the infield, painting of the grandstands, and upgrading of the concession areas.
Mercer Raceway Park will also be improving programming in the 2011 season as the only Saturday night track to offer weekly 410 Sprint Car racing in Western Pennsylvania. A tentative 2011 season schedule has been released, and is subject to change. In 2011, Sundays will also be utilized as a rain date in the event of the postponement of a Saturday Night Live event.
In the interest of safety and program length, Mercer Raceway Park will require all racers to utilize a RACEceiver radio during competition. All divisions except for the mini stocks will be required to use an AMB Transponder as well.