SALEM, Ind. – Salem Speedway fueled by the Hoosier Lottery is coming under new management.

Longtime track owner Owen Thompson has leased the property to Pekin, Ind., general contractor Bill Kniesly.

“I’m really excited about the future of Salem Speedway fueled by the Hoosier Lottery,” said Thompson. “Bill (Kniesly) is the young man who, in short order, organized and promoted the first ever West End Drag races this past October on the air strip next door. The event was a huge success, and I believe he can bring that same energy and excitement to Salem Speedway and the adjoining property.”

Kniesly, 37, manages construction crews across southern Indiana and northern Kentucky. During the last half dozen years, he’s also been promoting a variety of outdoor events to include mud drag racing, music and more.

“Salem Speedway and the beautiful property around it has so much potential,” said Kniesly. “I saw it first-hand last year during the annual Halloween 200 race weekend. The West End Drags we had the day before went off really well, beyond our expectations, and the Halloween 200 finale packed the house on the High-Banks. I’m confident there’s so much more we can do with the properties. For one, we could really enhance the incredible camping area out front to help create a memorable and festive multi-event experience. I’m super excited about the possibilities and the future of Salem Speedway.”

Salem Speedway officials also announced that they would retain the services of the track’s Multi-Media Director, Don Radebaugh.