Imagine dedicating nearly six decades of your life to a single passion, only to realize it’s time to let go. That’s the bittersweet reality for Del Merritt, the longtime owner of Speedway 95 in Hermon, who is passing the torch to former NASCAR Cup Series winner Ricky Craven after 57 years. But here’s where it gets emotional: Merritt, who first stepped onto the track as an assistant flagman in 1968, admits it wasn’t easy deciding to sell. ‘If someone had told me 57 years ago I’d still be doing this, I would’ve called them nuts,’ he reflects. Yet, as he prepares for his final race weekend as owner during the annual Paul Bunyan Speed Weekend, Merritt is at peace—and even excited for what’s next. ‘I think I’ll go out with a bang,’ he says with a smile. But here’s where it gets controversial: While Merritt insists he’s confident in Craven’s vision, some fans can’t help but wonder if the track’s legacy will remain intact under new leadership. And this is the part most people miss: Merritt’s decision wasn’t about necessity—‘Did I have to sell it? No,’ he clarifies—but about timing. ‘Everything has its time.’
Merritt’s journey with Speedway 95 is nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as a flagman to becoming a co-owner alongside Maynard (Red) Baker Sr., Alice Baker, and John Michaels, he’s poured ‘blood, sweat, and tears’ into the track, as longtime office manager Kim Baker Allen puts it. Yet, despite his deep attachment, Merritt sees the sale as a natural evolution. ‘I’ve seen what Ricky has done, and I trust him,’ he says, though he jokingly adds, ‘I’ll try to keep him out of trouble—or get him in trouble.’ Craven, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series winner with his own family history at the track, shares Merritt’s passion. ‘Del is a wonderful human being,’ Craven says. ‘He’s been a tremendous guardian and asset to me.’
Here’s the bold truth: While Merritt’s decision to sell has sparked gratitude from drivers and fans alike—many have ‘come out of the woodwork’ to thank him for preserving the track’s legacy—it also raises questions. Could Speedway 95 have thrived under Merritt’s ownership for years to come? Or is this the best possible outcome for its future? Unity Raceway owner Ralph Nason praises Merritt’s commitment, noting he turned down lucrative offers from developers to keep the track intact. ‘He was adamant it remain a race track,’ Nason says. Craven has pledged to keep it as such for at least a decade, but only time will tell.
As Merritt steps back, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, community, and unwavering dedication. ‘If I didn’t enjoy it, I wouldn’t have stayed this long,’ he says. Yet, he’s not disappearing entirely. ‘I’ll be able to go there any time until Ricky throws me out—and I don’t think he will.’ For now, Merritt is focused on his final weekend as owner, celebrating a journey that’s been as much about the people as the racing. ‘You have to have thick skin,’ he advises, reflecting on the sport’s highs and lows. ‘Everybody loses their temper once in a while.’
Thought-provoking question for you: Is letting go of a lifelong passion ever truly easy, or is it a necessary step for growth? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation about legacy, change, and the enduring spirit of racing.
