Alaska Raceway Park reaches top 5 in Advance My Track Challenge

BUTTE — Alaska Raceway Park is currently among the top five tracks from across the country competing for the grand prize of $50,000 in the 2023 NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Advance My Track Challenge.

Alaska Raceway Park owner Michelle Maynor Lackey said this is the third year in a row they've reached the final five bracket and they're going full speed toward the finish line.

"Now that we're here, we gotta take first place," Lackey Maynor said. "I'm really hoping that we win. We've been practicing long enough."

Lackey Maynor credited the widespread network of dedicated supporters for helping them get to this point.

"It's very humbling," Lackey Maynor said. "Everybody just loves what we're doing and just loves this little community we created."

There will be numerous racing events throughout the weekend at the oval track and the drag strip. The first race of the season starts Saturday, at 6 p.m. with the spectator gates opening at 2 p.m.

Over 30 racers participated during the first practice day of the season Wednesday, May 10. Lackey Maynor said that they're looking forward to another busy race season.

"It's great to see everyone again," Lackey Maynor said.

A custom playground was installed with the prize money from the 2021 competition, and general improvements were made with the 2022 prize money. She said the playground has had a lot of use, and she's enjoyed seeing local families enjoy the day together at their racing facility.

"Everyone's having a good time and that's what we're here for,” Lackey Maynor said.

Lackey Maynor said they plan to use the winnings for track improvements such as adding parking space for motorcycle parking and expanding overall parking for racers. She said they're asking for the public's help to make it all the way to the top of this year's challenge.

People can vote three times a day before the final cut-off point at 8 p.m. Monday, May 15.

To vote online, visit advancemytrack.com.

Alaska Raceway's video submission can be found online at

youtu.be/JXOIxMhpMHQ.

For more information about Alaska Raceway Park, including this year's racing schedule and how to follow them on social media, visit raceak.com.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com