COLUMBUS, Ohio – The U.S. Motorsports Ass’n has announced the formation of the Ohio Motorsports Coalition, focusing on the safe resumption of motorsports across the state.

The coalition brings together the state’s race tracks, sanctioning organizations, and related businesses impacted by the COVID-19 shutdown.

The group is holding its first official meeting on May 14. All track owners, promoters, sanctioning organizations, and related businesses are encouraged to join the coalition and attend the online meeting.

A letter from the coalition has been drafted and will be submitted to Governor Mike DeWine, specifically asking for participation in the Governors Responsible Restart Plan. The Ohio Motorsports Coalition has developed a cohesive plan to implement health guidelines and social distancing requirements as they reopen.

Racetracks have massive space and infrastructure to socially distance. Racing facilities can also be used as a learning site for all community events and mass gatherings to follow.

Sporting events, fairs, festivals, and other outdoor recreation can learn from the race tracks as Ohio looks towards a reopening plan.

“We understand and respect that large spectator events cannot happen right away and that is not what we are seeking initially. Our tracks and organizations have detailed and safe plans to begin conducting small-format events,” said Jason Kennedy, owner of AutoInterests, and Chairman of the Ohio Motorsports Coalition. “Our season is not long and small events must begin very soon to keep our tracks and industry alive. It’s crucial our plan is heard by state and local government.”

The Ohio Motorsports Coalition consists of members tracks, promoters, and related businesses from all across the state of Ohio. The list of members is growing daily. Already the group has amassed more than 5,000 petition supporters.

To participate in the Coalition meeting, email [email protected]unitedstatesmotorsports.com.