Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Langley Speedway topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Hampton marks 75 years of Langley Speedway as city highlights racing legacy
Summary
At a ceremonial city council spotlight, officials and tourism staff celebrated the 75th anniversary of Langley Speedway, recalling its 1950 founding, 1968 paving investment, ties to NASCAR-era races and the city's ongoing Hampton Heat event on July 19.
Brian Marchese, the city’s outreach and creative coordinator, opened the council’s ceremonial spotlight by saying, “Tonight, we celebrate not 1, but 2 defining chapters in Hampton's story.” He led the council through Langley Speedway’s history, noting that the track began as a dirt oval in 1950 on North Armistead Avenue and later became a defining local institution for stock-car racing.
Marchese recounted that local businessman Henry Klitsch leased the facility in 1963 and invested in paving the track in 1968 — a reported $25,000 investment — and that Langley hosted national-level stock-car events in the 1960s and 1970s. “For 75 years, Langley Speedway has been more than just a racetrack,” Marchese said, describing the venue as a proving ground for champions and a Saturday-night tradition that helped launch both national stars and homegrown drivers.
Mary Fugier of the Convention and Visitors Bureau described a long-running partnership between the city and the track, saying the relationship has supported the Hampton Heat racing event and broader tourism efforts. Fugier said the season includes the Cars tour stop on May 31 and a Halloween Speedfest on Oct. 25, and confirmed the Hampton Heat event is scheduled for July 19; she noted the council has dedicated a commemorative coin throughout 2025 to honor Langley Speedway.
Marchese also acknowledged current operators Bill Mullis and Chuck Hall, who were unable to attend but had sent their appreciation. Mayor Gray praised the speedway’s role in developing local talent and noted younger drivers who have risen through the local ranks.
No formal council action or vote was taken during the spotlight session; the presentation served as a ceremonial recognition and a public note of the city’s continued tourism partnership with Langley Speedway.
