A year ago, they never could have imagined actually living at one, especially in Texas.
But fate and a Google search during a road trip last year brought the Colemans to Wise County where they purchased the Oak Hill Raceway between Decatur and Alvord.
After six months on the property and running it since April, the Colemans are set to hold a grand opening Saturday at the track from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“It’s the official re-grand opening. We never closed, but it’s a chance to say ‘we are here and come meet the new owners,'” Kevin Coleman said.
The track, located on County Road 1270, has been in operation since 1975. The main track, which allows seasoned riders to sky through the air and take crazy hairpin turns, is one of four at the facility. There is also the grand prix track. The Colemans have added a vet track for riders looking for a smoother ride and a pee wee/pit bike track for new riders.
“It’s been a lot of back-breaking work, but at the same time it’s been a lot of fun. We’re meeting a lot of new families and people,” Kevin said.
The facility also features 240 RV hookups. Kevin said they are utilized during big events, but they hope to see them used more. The Colemans hope to add more amenities to the site in the future, including a skate park, paint ball and mountain biking trails.
“Our goal is to turn it into a family fun center, but also have motocross and dirt bike riding … Really anything we can come up with to get families to come out for the weekend and play,” he said.
The facility is gearing up for its first major event since the Colemans took ownership, the Fly Racing GNC International Motocross Final July 22-25. The AMA sanctioned event was moved from March to July.
“We’re working to get ready for that. It’s a pretty big deal,” Kevin said.
The Colemans are hoping the change in the date will bring in more entries. It will be a week before the prestigious event at Loretta Lynn’s in Hurricane, Tenn.
Oak Hill is open Wednesday from 2 p.m. until dark and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.