Willow Springs Raceway, a historic California track, marked its second year under new ownership with the Willow Springs Reimagined event. The October 17 showcase highlighted upgrades like an updated cafe, efficient shuttles, and free ridealongs.
In 2025, the track’s sale after 63 years of Huth family ownership sparked excitement and hesitation among car and motorcycle enthusiasts. The new owners, a partnership between CrossHarbor and Singer Vehicle Design, promised significant improvements to the multi-track facility.
A Members-Only Shift and Event Highlights
The track’s transition to a members-only format raised concerns about public access. However, the second annual Willow Springs Reimagined event offered a mix of car show elements, on-track experiences, and a luxury lounge for VIP ticket holders.
Attendees enjoyed free ridealongs with Rivian and DirtFish Rally School, as well as go-karting for $40. Races on the Big Willow track featured an IROC Porsche tribute, a vintage B-sedan race, and a classic motorcycle class.
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Progress and Ongoing Challenges
The event showcased improvements like new asphalt and paint, but challenges remain. The $450,000 initiation fee for membership has created an raised experience for some, while others feel like an afterthought.
A writer who attended the event in 2023 noted the “soul” of the place, appreciating the preservation of original buildings and signs. However, the lack of shade and overnight accommodations were noticeable drawbacks.
The new owners have ambitious plans, including open test-and-tune days and a Goodwood-like event in collaboration with the Duke of Richmond. Construction is underway for garages and condos to expand hospitality options.
While the track’s transformation is ongoing, the second annual Willow Springs Reimagined event demonstrated progress, offering a glimpse into the future of this iconic racetrack, with Ed Jones taking home the Huth Invitational Cup and Craig Coker winning the Petersen Hill Climb in a modified Tesla.
Event Improvements and Highlights
Activities included free ridealongs with Rivian and DirtFish Rally School, offering attendees a taste of off-road and rally driving. Go-karting, priced at $40, provided an affordable option for those wanting to drive themselves. The races featured diverse classes, such as the IROC Porsche tribute, vintage B-sedan race, and classic motorcycle class, though spectators noted limited visual appeal due to security restrictions and a predominance of identical Porsches.
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Winners and Future Plans
The event concluded with several notable victories. Ed Jones secured the Huth Invitational Cup, outperforming competitors like Jensen Button and Patrick Long. Craig Coker, driving a modified Tesla, won the Petersen Hill Climb, beating out high-performance vehicles like an Aston Martin and a T.50. Other winners included Robert Darylmple in the Clubwheels race, Edwin Haazer in the motorcycle class, and Brent Smith in the IROC race.
Car Show and Experiential Displays
The event featured a curated car show, drawing inspiration from experiential displays like Luftgekühlt. Vehicles were arranged in photogenic tableaux rather than traditional rows. Highlights included a Bugatti EB110, a lowrider-styled kei truck, and a Darrell Waltrip NASCAR Monte Carlo. DirtFish contributed a lineup of retro rally cars.
Despite some rarities, the show had a smaller-than-expected car count. Including more local car clubs or collectors could enhance inclusivity. The display, while appealing, felt limited for a track with such extensive racing history.
Formula Drift drivers Matt Field and Odi Bakchis, alongside local organizer Charlie Ongsingco, offered ridealongs from the balcony. The $75 ride fee, on top of the $50 entry, drew criticism but proved popular, with long lines and smiling participants.
