Ricky Craven Purchases Speedway 95, Pledges to Revitalize Maine Short Track

The echoes of history are meeting the rumble of the future at Speedway 95 in Hermon. Former NASCAR driver Ricky Craven, a Newburgh native and the only Mainer to win at the sport’s top level, has purchased the facility. The track, long considered a cornerstone of Maine’s racing culture, will remain under the operational eye of outgoing owner Delano Merritt through the remainder of the 2025 season. With the change in leadership, Speedway 95 begins a bold new era.

Key Highlights

• Former NASCAR driver Ricky Craven purchases Speedway 95 in Hermon, Maine.

• Outgoing owner Delano Merritt to oversee operations through 2025 season.

• Craven promises “extensive renovations” with details to come later.

• Speedway 95 has deep ties to Craven’s family and racing history.

• Facility to evolve with long-term vision and multiple development phases.

Ricky Craven’s Emotional Announcement

For Craven, the purchase of Speedway 95 is far more than a business move. The track carries a personal legacy, one rooted in family and memory.

“Today is a monumental day for me and my family. I have been friends with Del for decades and admired the dedication he has given for his track, team, and all associated with Speedway 95. I am dedicating the rest of my life to a track that has been part of my DNA for many years. Both my Mom and Dad won races at Speedway 95 in the 70’s.” – Ricky Craven

Craven emphasized that his connection to Speedway 95 goes beyond nostalgia. His past, present, and now future in racing all tie back to the Hermon facility, where his parents once raced and where he grew his own career. The symbolic transition reflects not just ownership, but stewardship of a local landmark.

The Merritt Era Comes to a Close

Delano Merritt has been synonymous with Speedway 95 for decades. Having worked at the track since 1968, he took sole ownership 15 years ago and has guided it through changing times. While the sale represents a significant handoff, Merritt will continue managing operations through the conclusion of the 2025 racing season, scheduled to end on October 12.

“I have the honor of receiving the checkered flag and a black flag from Del during my racing.” – Ricky Craven

Craven acknowledged Merritt’s role in both the facility and his personal journey, underscoring the importance of continuity as Speedway 95 transitions into its next phase.

Plans for Renovation and Renewal

Craven has already made clear his vision for the track’s future. While specific details remain under wraps, the plan involves “extensive renovations” aimed at modernizing the facility and enhancing the experience for competitors and fans alike.

“We will, in the near future, share with all the people with equity in this track our intentions to do some aggressive vision of how this facility will continue to evolve. It includes several phases that I can not wait to get started.” – Ricky Craven

The project is expected to include track improvements and upgrades to amenities, ensuring Speedway 95 remains a viable and vibrant racing hub for years to come. The combination of Craven’s NASCAR pedigree and local roots positions him uniquely to both honor the track’s history and push it forward.

Craven’s Racing Legacy

Craven’s career stands as one of the most successful stories to come from Maine’s racing scene. Starting at Unity Raceway at just 15 years old, he climbed steadily through the ranks, making his NASCAR debut at Oxford Plains Speedway in 1986. His crowning achievement came in 2003 at Darlington Raceway, where he secured a dramatic victory that remains one of the sport’s most iconic finishes.

That win cemented his place in NASCAR history as the only Mainer to reach victory lane at the Cup Series level. Following his retirement from racing, Craven remained involved in the sport as an analyst and businessman. Now, his return to the grassroots level brings his journey full circle, back to the tracks that first shaped him.

News in Brief: Ricky Craven Purchases Speedway 95

Ricky Craven, former NASCAR driver and the only Mainer to win at NASCAR’s highest level, has purchased Speedway 95 in Hermon, Maine. Outgoing owner Delano Merritt, who has overseen the track for 15 years, will continue to manage operations through the 2025 season. Craven, who began his racing career in Maine, announced plans for extensive renovations and a long-term vision to modernize the facility. The track’s deep ties to Craven’s family and career make this transition especially significant.

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