DARLINGTON, SC (WBTW) – Since 1976, the Darlington Dragway has hosted numerous events.
However, now the Dragway looks to begin its newest chapter, with a new owner.
The new owner is Hartsville businessman Russell Miller.
“It is quite a bit of work that needs to be done,” said Miller.
For the past 4 years he has been a silent partner at the drag strip, with thoughts of one day owning it.
“Yes, it was in the back of my mind. Whenever I got the opportunity to get involved I jumped at the opportunity and it helped keep the track open at that time,” he explained.
Miller is no stranger to drag racing at all. He is a former driver himself who has turned a passion into a family affair.
“I started like anybody else. I had a fast street car growing up. My dad was into racing round track,” he stated.
Both his son Tyler and daughter Brooke compete at the pro level.
“I feel like having this track to what it used to be or better is what we hope for,” Tyler said.
Now work begins on new concrete guardrails, repaving and renovating, along with other necessary upgrades
“Safety is going to be an issue in the years to come and these upgrades are definitely a part of that. We want to increase the integrity of the track. I look for it to be the premier dragstrip in South Carolina,” Miller mentioned.
He says he looks to start small and grow in the coming years to lure bigger racing organizations to the facility.
