LOCUST GROVE, Ark. — Mooney and Connie Starr, owners of the Batesville Motor Speedway, have announced their decision to step away from the racing world and put the iconic dirt track up for sale. Nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Locust Grove, the 3/8-mile track has been a staple of Mid-South racing culture for over three decades.
Reflecting on their years of dedication, Mooney Starr shared, “We have spent thirty-two years of our lives promoting races in the Mid-South area, and I feel that we have made a major impact on all classes of racing.” Starr noted some of their “wild ideas” turned into innovative traditions for fans and racers alike, such as the track’s famous Topless 100, an event where drivers race without roofs on their cars, giving fans a unique view of the action.
Over the years, the Starrs have transformed Batesville Motor Speedway into a premier dirt track known for its well-maintained facilities and passionate racing community. However, they say that keeping the track going has become physically challenging. “There comes a time when you physically cannot do what it takes to keep things going,” Starr explained.
The Starrs have assured that the 2025 racing schedule is already set, allowing prospective new owners to smoothly transition into managing the speedway and its sponsor commitments.
In a heartfelt message, the Starrs expressed mixed emotions about stepping away from a sport that has been central to their family’s life: “This is a very hard decision for us to make since racing has been a part of our lives for so long. Having sons that race makes it that much harder. It will be a sad day—and a happy day, maybe—when we do sell.”
For now, the racing community will look forward to a full 2025 season at Batesville Motor Speedway, celebrating the Starr family’s legacy and the track’s impact on regional racing.
