For over 30 years, Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 has been a beacon of Midwest dirt racing, earning its affectionate nickname, the “Mini Eldora,” thanks to NASCAR veteran Ken Schrader. This iconic third-mile, high-banked clay oval in Pevely, Missouri, has hosted legendary events like the Ironman 55 and the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series, carving out a special place in motorsports history. Now, a new era dawns as Schrader and his longtime business partner, Ray Marler, pass the torch to a younger generation.
Ken Schrader and Ray Marler: Leaving a Legacy
For decades, Schrader and Marler poured their hearts into I-55, transforming it into one of the Midwest’s premier dirt tracks. However, as Schrader revealed on the Herm and Schrader Podcast, the decision to sell was both inevitable and emotional.
“Ray [Marler] is 86 years old now. He and Sue [Marler] have worked their butts off for 30 years. It’s just time,” Schrader said. He added that the opportunity arose when Josh Carroll, a respected promoter and operator of the Brownstown Bullring in Illinois, expressed interest in taking the reins.
“He’s younger, full of enthusiasm, and has done a fantastic job at Brownstown,” Schrader said, confident in Carroll’s ability to carry the torch.
Josh Carroll: A Visionary for the Future
Carroll, whose family previously owned Godfrey Speedway near St. Louis, has already built a stellar reputation for revitalizing the Brownstown Bullring. Known for marquee events like the MARS Series Brownstown 100, Carroll transformed the Illinois track into one of the best in the region. Now, he brings that same energy to Federated Auto Parts Raceway.
“This track has an incredible history and a loyal fan base,” Carroll said in a statement. “Ken and Ray’s dedication made this place the heartbeat of dirt racing in St. Louis. I’m humbled to build on their legacy.”
Carroll wasted no time outlining his vision: “The first thing I’m going to do is shape the racetrack and ensure we have excellent food. That’s just the start. I’m going to take this place to the next level.”
The ‘Mini Eldora’: A Storied Past and Bright Future
Under Schrader and Marler, I-55 became a cornerstone of the dirt racing community, hosting the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars, DIRTcar Summer Nationals, and countless regional events. The track has drawn legends like Dale Earnhardt Jr., Bobby Labonte, Brad Keselowski, and Kyle Busch.
Reflecting on Schrader’s tenure, NASCAR veteran Kenny Wallace described I-55 as a diamond of Midwest motorsports: “You brought in the greats. I-55 has done so much and brought so many people up. You’ve handed over a diamond.”
Carroll’s dual stewardship of I-55 and Brownstown opens opportunities for collaboration, with plans already underway for the 2025 season, promising exciting events and upgrades for fans and drivers alike.
An Emotional Goodbye for Ken Schrader
For Schrader, the sale marks the end of an era but also a fresh beginning for the track he loves. “We’re excited because we’re leaving it in good hands,” he said, likening the transition to Tony Stewart’s acquisition of Eldora Speedway in 2004.
Despite his optimism, Schrader acknowledged the emotional weight of stepping away: “Hopefully [Josh] has fun, and maybe a few headaches along the way!” he joked, before urging Wallace to change the subject to avoid tearing up.
Fans Embrace the Transition
Fans of Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55 have expressed excitement about the track’s future under Carroll’s leadership. His proven track record at Brownstown inspires confidence that he’ll honor the track’s history while injecting fresh ideas.
Wallace summed up the sentiment perfectly: “The whole time I was in Charlotte racing NASCAR, I knew that your racetrack was like a religion.”
Schrader, ever humble, reminded listeners of the importance of all local tracks: “Everybody’s local track is the most important track there is.”
Looking Ahead
As the dirt racing world anticipates the next chapter for I-55, Josh Carroll’s vision and energy promise to build on the rich legacy left by Schrader and Marler. For fans and racers alike, the “Mini Eldora” is poised for a bright future.