NASCAR champion joins ownership group of hometown racetrack
Kern County Raceway Park has a new name heading into the 2024 season. The track has been renamed Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway.
The track was built in 2013 by founding members Charlie Beard, Rusty Risi, and James Vernon. The pristine track sits on 120-acres in Bakersfield, California.
Tim & Lisa Huddleston have purchased the track. They have tapped Kevin Harvick, a Bakersfield native to help promote the speedway.
“As part of the newly created partnership, Harvick will work closely with the leadership team to ensure the best decisions are made for the track, the competitors and to help build the overall health of motorsports at the grassroots level. This will help continue the vision Harvick has for ensuring motorsports across the country, from the local level to the premier level, produces the best product possible.”
The Huddleston family is known for their work with Irwindale Speedway.
Kevin Harvick comments
“Bakersfield is my home, and I am committed to giving back and ensuring a bright future for motorsports in our community,” Harvick said.
“Together with Tim and Lisa, we will do everything in our power to make racing in Bakersfield as strong as it has ever been.”
“Excited to announce that we’re a part of the ownership group,” Harvick told Flo Sports.
“Really one of the biggest problems with Kern is really that most people don’t even know it’s there. When you go there, you’re like, ‘Where in the world have we been to not see this racetrack?’ It really is one of the nicest short tracks in the country.”
“It needs to be exposed to the world. Hopefully we can do that.”
Tim Huddleston
“Kevin Harvick’s involvement is a game-changer for Kern Raceway,” said Tim Huddleston, CEO of Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway. “His expertise and commitment will propel us to new heights. Together, we aim to create an electrifying racing experience for fans and competitors alike.”
Huddleston also tipped his hat to Virgie Beard and Rusty Risi.
“Their contributions have laid the foundation for the Raceway’s success, a legacy that our team is honored to continue,” Huddleston added. “In honor of the late Charlie Beard and his work in bringing KCRP to life, the suite tower will be re-named The Charlie Beard Tower effective immediately.”
The new owners are currently working on a 2024 schedule.
