LIMA — A lot of people say that time flies when you’re having fun. For most Limaland fans, it doesn’t seem like 20 years ago the University of Northwestern Ohio took over ownership of the track, but that is the case. Last week Limaland fans celebrated the 20th Anniversary Race, with the Non Wing Sprints being the main show. CJ Leary won the Non Wing Sprint race while Randy Lines won the K&N Filter UMP Modifieds and Justin Long won the Bud Thunderstocks. Long’s win helped him atop the Bud Thunderstocks standings with 884 points. Tony Anderson is currently in second with 876 points and Jordan Conover is in third with 846 points.
Racing continues Friday night for a rescheduled Run for the Rabbit XVII. This race will honor the late Travis Miller, who competed in the 360 Sprint Car scene. The pit gate opens at 4:30 p.m. and racing starts at 7:30 p.m.
UNOH President Dr. Jeffrey Jarvis has been exuberant with the progress made at Limaland Motorsports Park for the last 20 years.
“I cannot believe we have had ownership of Limaland Motorsports Park for 20 years,” Jarvis said. “It is a major accomplishment that we have been responsible for the care and development of Limaland for 20 years.”
Through the course of 20 years, there have been numerous improvements to the track. These improvements include new grandstands, pitside and grandstand suites, a corporate area, shelter house, asphalt to the facility, new track equipment, track surface improvement, a new scoring system and competition amongst the race teams.
Not only has UNOH impacted Limaland in a significant way, Limaland has also impacted UNOH.
“It serves as a home track for the UNOH Motorsports Team,” Jarvis said. “UNOH holds classes and student activities at Limaland. It’s a high branding and recruiting tool for UNOH. According to the Allen Economical Development Group, Limaland Motorsports Park has a $15 million a year impact on the local community.”
Even though Jarvis is busy with the everyday operation at UNOH, he still finds time to enjoy Friday nights at Limaland.
“The people, fans, competitors, staff and corporate partners are like family,” Jarvis said. “The people are the most enjoyable part of Friday nights!”
For results of Run for the Rabbit XVII, check out the Sunday edition of The Lima News.
