Sold: The singer, yes, that one, is set to operate a private club at the revamped Willow Springs Raceway.
Willow Springs International Raceway
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Willow Springs International Raceway is now officially under new management. As of April 9, the facility is jointly owned by a private equity firm based in Boston and a California-based Porsche restoration shop known as Singer Vehicle Designs. Yes, that Singer. This came as a surprise.
“We are excited to start a new chapter with such a cherished facility,” stated Sam Byrne, co-founder of CrossHarbor Capital Partners. “We are devoted to serving the community for many years to come and creating a venue where all members of the automotive community can come together to share their passion for Willow Springs and motorsports. Together with Singer, we are collaborating with esteemed names in the automotive industry and look forward to partnering with them in creating this quintessential California experience.”
It’s not unexpected that Singer intends to create a private club at Willow. This members-only club will be accessible to Singer’s clients as well as “other like-minded enthusiasts” (essentially anyone who can afford it) and will “allow drivers to bring their vehicles for track days and related experiences,” according to the announcement.
However, the new management insists that this won’t resemble another Thermal Club. Many of the proposed improvements will also enhance the club racing and track day experience.
“The new ownership group recognizes public access as a crucial element of Willow Springs’ success, and the raceway will continue to host both public and private events. The existing tracks, including all three road courses, will remain open to the public and will be improved for safety. A range of track configurations, including karting, ATV courses, and driver instruction, will continue to cater to diverse interests,” the announcement stated.
As previously reported by The Drive, the new owners plan to close the track over the summer to upgrade both the racing surfaces (particularly Big Willow) and the surrounding facilities. This shutdown has affected several events that were scheduled during the traditionally quieter summer months, but the new management is striving to accommodate existing bookings as best as possible.
“CrossHarbor has already begun a thorough evaluation of the raceway’s extensive facilities, initially focusing on enhancing the track and safety, including adding more asphalt and curbs and improving run-off areas with leveling and gravel,” the announcement explained. “Future plans involve preserving Willow Springs’ history while upgrading its amenities, enhancing food and beverage offerings, and refining the track and driving experience.”
Now seems like a great moment to share these stunning images of a Mercedes 300SL Gullwing being tested at Willow Springs in 1956. Bob D’Olivo/The Enthusiast Network via Getty Images
Management states that Singer’s role will extend beyond just the private club, emphasizing their intention to keep Willow Springs as part of a “long-term, multigenerational goal of preservation and enhancement.”
“Willow Springs holds significant value in California’s motorsport history for enthusiasts and all automotive aficionados. Singer has two decades of experience with track days, racing, and development on Willow’s circuits,” remarked Mazen Fawaz, Singer’s Chief Strategy Officer. “We are thrilled to ensure that it is in capable hands and can continue to be an even more impressive element of California’s car culture for the next seventy years. We take this responsibility very seriously, and our partners are exceptionally well-suited to manage it.”
If anyone understands the art of modernizing something vintage, it’s likely Singer. However, Singer is not only recognized for its ambitious projects or meticulous detail but also for crafting extremely expensive toys for the affluent. For now, we remain cautiously optimistic.
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Willow Springs International Raceway
Sign up for The Drive Daily
Willow Springs International Raceway is now officially under new management. As of April 9, the facility is jointly owned by a private equity firm based in Boston and a California-based Porsche restoration shop known as Singer Vehicle Designs. Yes, that Singer. This came as a surprise.
“We are excited to start a new chapter with such a cherished facility,” stated Sam Byrne, co-founder of CrossHarbor Capital Partners. “We are devoted to serving the community for many years to come and creating a venue where all members of the automotive community can come together to share their passion for Willow Springs and motorsports. Together with Singer, we are collaborating with esteemed names in the automotive industry and look forward to partnering with them in creating this quintessential California experience.”
It’s not unexpected that Singer intends to create a private club at Willow. This members-only club will be accessible to Singer’s clients as well as “other like-minded enthusiasts” (essentially anyone who can afford it) and will “allow drivers to bring their vehicles for track days and related experiences,” according to the announcement.
However, the new management insists that this won’t resemble another Thermal Club. Many of the proposed improvements will also enhance the club racing and track day experience.
“The new ownership group recognizes public access as a crucial element of Willow Springs’ success, and the raceway will continue to host both public and private events. The existing tracks, including all three road courses, will remain open to the public and will be improved for safety. A range of track configurations, including karting, ATV courses, and driver instruction, will continue to cater to diverse interests,” the announcement stated.
As previously reported by The Drive, the new owners plan to close the track over the summer to upgrade both the racing surfaces (particularly Big Willow) and the surrounding facilities. This shutdown has affected several events that were scheduled during the traditionally quieter summer months, but the new management is striving to accommodate existing bookings as best as possible.
“CrossHarbor has already begun a thorough evaluation of the raceway’s extensive facilities, initially focusing on enhancing the track and safety, including adding more asphalt and curbs and improving run-off areas with leveling and gravel,” the announcement explained. “Future plans involve preserving Willow Springs’ history while upgrading its amenities, enhancing food and beverage offerings, and refining the track and driving experience.”
Now seems like a great moment to share these stunning images of a Mercedes 300SL Gullwing being tested at Willow Springs in 1956. Bob D’Olivo/The Enthusiast Network via Getty Images
Management states that Singer’s role will extend beyond just the private club, emphasizing their intention to keep Willow Springs as part of a “long-term, multigenerational goal of preservation and enhancement.”
“Willow Springs holds significant value in California’s motorsport history for enthusiasts and all automotive aficionados. Singer has two decades of experience with track days, racing, and development on Willow’s circuits,” remarked Mazen Fawaz, Singer’s Chief Strategy Officer. “We are thrilled to ensure that it is in capable hands and can continue to be an even more impressive element of California’s car culture for the next seventy years. We take this responsibility very seriously, and our partners are exceptionally well-suited to manage it.”
If anyone understands the art of modernizing something vintage, it’s likely Singer. However, Singer is not only recognized for its ambitious projects or meticulous detail but also for crafting extremely expensive toys for the affluent. For now, we remain cautiously optimistic.
Have tips? Send them to [email protected]
You might not give this garage door a second thought if you weren't aware, as it features stone veneer and two entrances large enough for people built directly into it.
Sold: The singer, yes, that one, is set to operate a private club at the revamped Willow Springs Raceway.
It's confirmed—the agreement for the private equity firm to acquire the historic track is complete, with Singer Vehicle Design recognized as a co-owner.