Harvey Siegel, founder of the resurrected Virginia International Raceway, has announced he is passing the baton to his partner, Connie Nyholm. Over the last 15 years, Siegel and Nyholm have transformed the former abandoned racetrack into one of North America's premier road courses with the aim of creati8ng "the first true motorsport resort."
Siegel rediscovered the abandoned VIR some 15 years ago and viewed it as an opportunity to take his passion for sports car racing to a new level. Alongside Nyholm, a native Virginian who returned to her roots to implement Siegel's dream, the two worked together until the grand goal was accomplished.
Although Siegel is retiring from the operation and ownership of VIR, he will continue to be a club member and retain a residence at the track.
"I am delighted to pass the baton to Connie, whose tireless efforts have helped make VIR the standard for all such facilities," said Siegel. "Her energy and forward thinking complimented my own vision. Nowhere does the concept of two plus two equals five make a more perfect example. I am proud to turn this amazing facility over to a worthy custodian who I am confident will move it into the 21st century."
Nyholm will have a new partner in Kathy Stout who, along with her husband, are both accomplished VIPER racers with the NARRA Series, of which they are part owners. The Stouts also own Pittsburgh International Race Complex, 35 miles north of Pittsburgh, which encompasses a road course and karting facility.