(Image Credit: John Lee)
SAPULPA, Okla. (November 5, 2024) A change of leadership at Creek County Speedway, Matt Ward, has been named the new general manager/promoter of the quarter-mile oval located between Sapulpa and Kellyville, Okla. on Route 66.
Serving as the National Director for the American Sprint Car Series from 2011 through 2021, Ward is currently the Director of Operations at the Tulsa Shootout and Chili Bowl Nationals. Keeping the track close to the family, Ward is the eldest grandson of track owner Emmett Hahn.
“I’m looking forward to the 2025 season. I was there when the track was built and spent most of my childhood there, so this track holds a very special place in my heart,” stated Ward.
Managed by Steve Hahn since 2018, the decision was made to step away following the 2024 regular season.
"Change is better in a lot of circumstances," stated Steve Hahn. "In this particular circumstance, our family dynamic has changed with the passing of my mom and my energy is better focused on the bigger picture of our entire family business. We have some things developing that requires more of my attention and it’s time to hand the reigns to Matt because we know he’ll do a great job running the track and allow me to focus more on our future.”
During his time at Creek County Speedway, Hahn oversaw several upgrades to the facility, with a focus on safety in the way of replacing the wall that lines the front straightaway, lighting, signal lights, and several other aspects of the facility.
Operating under Ward Worthy Promotions, the new endeavor will include Matt's wife, Ashleigh Ward, who headed Timing and Scoring during Ward's time with ASCS, and heads that position currently at Tulsa Expo Raceway. They are also partners in the promotion of the Pete Frazier Memorial with Kristy McDougal.
Helping Matt with facilities and promotions, Ashleigh stated, "My main focus is reopening the pit concession, and addressing issues with the pit restrooms. I also want to bring back more awareness for the communities around Creek County and making our youth a large part of our program. Our moniker is Oklahoma's Fastest Family Entertainment, and that's something we are really focused on."
Currently working on the 2025 schedule of events, the Ward duo plans to bring a point fund back to the weekly classes, as well as hold an end-of-year awards banquet to recognize the teams who help make Creek County Speedway one of the top weekly programs in the state.
Weekly divisions, payouts, and other information will be posted once finalized.
Matt Ward can be reached by calling (918) 809-2232 or by emailing ascsmatt@aol.com.
Creek County Speedway is located at 18450 West Hwy. 66 between Sapulpa and Kellyville. For more information on Creek County Speedway, including a complete lineup of events and directions, log onto www.creekcountyspeedway.co.