MOUNT VERNON – Pacemakers Dragway Park track operator Rod Zolman stepped down last week, citing operating costs and the uncertainties of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic as the primary reasons.
"With spring fast approaching, the time has come that I feel the need to let racers know that our family will not return as the track operators of Pacemakers Dragway Park," Zolman said in a statement posted on Pacemakers' Facebook page. "I am apprehensive that this season will continue to be a struggle with COVID restrictions, additional bureaucracy and increasing overhead. Another season of COVID restrictions simply no longer allows for any financial viability."
In the statement posted on Tuesday, Feb. 9, Zolman went on to add that family time — especially time with his grandchildren — factored into the decision.
"It is with gratitude that I thank those that have supported the track over the years, including the racers, workers, families, sponsors and many volunteers," he said. "My family and I wish you all the best in your racing adventures and hope to see you at a track in the future."
"Sorry, really have no comment other than what I posted," Zolman responded when reached by the Mount Vernon News. "I don't see any reason to prolong the struggle and — with likely another year of restrictions — I would rather be with family."
Larry Nelson and family, the owners of the legendary eighth-of-a-mile track, could not be reached for comment about the status of finding a new track operator.
Zolman brought innovation to Pacemakers in his five years at the helm. He increased revenue through more sponsorship. He also made Powerwheels racing a regular feature, which was a big hit with parents and grandparents. He brought in street racers from all over the region, attracting them with prize money and a safe track to race on.
Additionally, he contracted with Velvet Ice Cream, which was served on a specially constructed patio.
During Zolman's time as track operator, BoostedGT from the Discovery Channel's "Street Outlaws" made a featured appearance. He raced and was impressed with Pacemakers.
In 2019, Pacemakers hosted the very successful Knox Grudge Race, featuring local celebrities, to raise money for the Foundation for Knox Community Hospital.
Longtime racer and local business owner Linn Bebout knows how hard Zolman worked to improve Pacemakers, including instituting an advisory board in 2020 to improve the track.
"Rod and his family have tried really hard, and Rod is a good friend of mine," Bebout said, "He called it an 'advisory board' last year, but it was a bunch of guys just trying to help out. It's just so hard for a small track to make it financially. Rod and his family have done better than anybody else who's had it since the Pacemaker Club had it. He did a fine job."
