2017 marks VIR's 60th Anniversary from opening back in road racing's heyday of 1957. With so many teams and manufacturers involved with IMSA and PWC, there has not been a better time for sportscar racing in recent memory. Everyone at VIR is looking forward to a busy year ahead with a full calendar challenging the historic full course newly paved by Turner Asphalt. Several track upgrades were implemented over the winter and a new fire pit is planned for the Tavern this spring.
Many of us were in Daytona for IMSA's 2017 WeatherTech Championship season opener - the 55th Rolex 24. It was an incredibly exciting race with a record 17 manufacturers participating and more fans than I have ever seen at this race. The Michelin GT Challenge at VIR August 25-27 is poised to be just as exciting. As will be the Pirelli World Challenge, which visits VIR April 28-30 for the first time. MotoAmerica and SVRA's Gold Cup are returning, as are our other annual events and track rentals. For more information on our 2017 spectator events please click here. To view VIR's full season calendar including car clubs and amateur event dates click here.
It's going to be a great year at VIR because of you - our fans, participants, industry partners, and staff. We look forward to seeing you all and, as I always say, "Come back, come often, and bring your friends!" Connie
Connie Nyholm Named One of the Most Influential Virginians for a Third Consecutive Year
Connie Nyholm, majority owner and CEO, Virginia International Raceway, Alton, VA
Why she is influential: Nyholm leads Virginia International Raceway (VIR), a 1,370-acre “motorsport resort” that draws approximately half a million visitors per year. VIR employs 350 people, making it the eighth-largest employer in Halifax County. Adjacent to the resort is the VIRginia Motorsport Technology Park, which houses Virginia Tech’s Global Center for Automotive Performance Simulation (GCAPS) — a major testing ground for the automobile industry. Nyholm serves on the boards of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, the Road Racing Industry Council and the Danville River District Advisory.
Recent developments: In August, VIR announced its newest tenant at the VIRginia Motorsport Technology Park. The company, Redkoch, provides training for U.S. military Special Forces and elite law enforcement units in areas of tactics, firearms and ground mobility.