Big 8 Late Model Series Under New Leadership
(Oregon, WI) - Madison International Speedway owner Gregg McKarns will take over ownership of the Big 8 Series, bringing his involvement with the series full circle as it enters its next chapter. McKarns helped found the Big 8 Series alongside the Deery Family in 2004 and was Series Director through 2014. More than two decades later he returns to the series in an ownership role bringing a longstanding connection to the Big 8 Series and short track racing.
"There is a special place in my heart for Big 8," noted McKarns. "We have something special here in Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest. We want to continue to strengthen weekly racing throughout the region. I don't have many hobbies outside of short track racing. I used to refer to Big 8 as what I did instead of fishing.....I'm looking forward to getting back after it."
The Big 8 Series was built on bringing together the best Weekly Warrior Late Model drivers from tracks across the region to compete against one another on a bigger stage. Designed around eight major events, the series gives drivers the opportunity to travel to different tracks throughout the Midwest while still being able to support their home track.
Alongside the ownership transition McKarns has appointed Alex Gilhart as Series Director of the Big 8 Series. Gilhart has worked alongside McKarns since 2016 and brings experience in motorsports marketing, working with multiple racing series, along with serving as an official at several tracks throughout the state of Wisconsin.
“I am excited to work alongside Gregg and support the Weekly Warrior Late Model drivers that make short track racing what it is today. These teams and drivers are the backbone of short track racing and I look forward to helping provide them with opportunities to compete against the best in the region while continuing to support the local tracks that make our sport possible.”
There is an informational meeting set for Saturday January 9, 2027 during the Midwest Racers' Expo in Fond Du Lac, WI. Discussions with tracks and sponsors are already underway for the 2027 season, with additional announcements expected in the coming weeks.