Reviving Tradition: Chris and Shelby Mattingly’s Bold New Era at US 60 Dragway
In the heart of Hardinsburg, Kentucky, a storied drag strip is experiencing a renaissance. US 60 Dragway, a beloved eighth-mile track with nearly six decades of racing history, has found new life under the stewardship of Chris and Shelby Mattingly. Since acquiring the facility in April 2023, the Mattinglys have embarked on a journey that is as much about honoring tradition as it is about forging a bold, community-driven future.
A Family’s Racing Legacy
For Chris Mattingly, drag racing is more than a pastime—it’s a family legacy. His father raced stock and super stock classes in the 198s, and Chris himself first took the wheel in 2008. That passion has only deepened over the years, culminating in the decision to purchase US 60 Dragway alongside his wife, Shelby, and their son, Cash. Their roots in the motorsports community run deep, and their commitment to the sport is evident in every decision they make.
“We are excited to be the new owners of US 60 Dragway,” the Mattinglys shared shortly after the purchase. “We’re going to put our hearts into this and revive the track. It’s not going to happen overnight, but we’re positive we can make the changes needed to make US 60 a top-notch facility again.”
Hands-On Leadership and Relentless Work Ethic
What sets Chris and Shelby apart is their hands-on approach. They are present at the track for nearly every event, working side by side with their team and the racers. Chris jokes about wearing every hat—from announcer to prep crew to parking attendant—but it’s no exaggeration. Shelby’s presence is just as vital, managing registration, social media, and racer relations with a warmth and professionalism that has endeared her to the racing community.
Their leadership style is rooted in empathy and experience. As former racers themselves, they understand the challenges competitors face and strive to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. “Racers like to see the owners present, and we like seeing them too,” Chris explains. “We meet new people every week.”
Transformative Upgrades and a Vision for the Future
The Mattinglys wasted no time in launching a sweeping renovation campaign. Their first off-season saw the demolition and relocation of the old concession stand, the construction of new restrooms and shower houses, and the installation of state-of-the-art LED lighting and an upgraded PA system. The track’s surface, once in dire need of attention, was completely rebuilt with brand-new concrete, widened to 53 feet, and flanked by new concrete walls for enhanced safety. Even the pits received fresh asphalt, and the shutdown area was lengthened to accommodate faster, safer racing.
These improvements are more than cosmetic—they are foundational to the Mattinglys’ vision of making US 60 Dragway a premier destination for racers and fans alike. “We’ve made a lot of progress to the facility, but we’re not even close to being done with all we want to do here,” Chris says. Plans are already underway to expand the pits, add a second exit for convenience, and introduce more family-friendly amenities, like a giant bounce house that’s become a weekend favorite.
Building Community, One Event at a Time
Central to the Mattinglys’ philosophy is a commitment to grassroots racing and community engagement. They have expanded the event schedule to include not only bracket racing—a cornerstone of the track’s legacy—but also car shows, test-and-tune nights, and high-stakes events like the Grudge Bowl, which recently saw a nearly six-figure payout. These efforts have attracted racers from across the country and reinvigorated local interest.
Chris and Shelby are acutely aware of the challenges facing small tracks in today’s motorsports landscape. Weather, payouts, and the relentless demands of promotion are constant hurdles. Yet, their resilience and willingness to innovate have set US 60 Dragway apart as a beacon of hope for grassroots racing. “It’s hard as hell,” Chris admits, “but this place means a lot to people, and it means a lot to me.”
A Model for Sustainable Growth
The Mattinglys’ approach is pragmatic yet ambitious. They keep meticulous records, track attendance and participation, and listen closely to feedback from racers and fans. Their goal is not just to survive but to thrive—to make US 60 Dragway a benchmark for what a small, independent track can achieve.
Their story is a testament to the power of passion, grit, and community spirit. In an era when many tracks are closing their gates, Chris and Shelby are opening theirs wider than ever, inviting a new generation to experience the thrill of drag racing in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Looking Ahead
As US 60 Dragway celebrates its 60th year, the future has never looked brighter. The Mattinglys’ vision is clear: to honor the past while building for tomorrow, to foster a sense of belonging among racers and fans, and to ensure that the roar of engines and the spirit of competition continue to echo through Hardinsburg for years to come.
For Chris and Shelby Mattingly, this is more than a business—it’s a calling. And for the drag racing community, their leadership is a reminder that with heart, hard work, and a relentless drive to improve, even the most storied traditions can be reborn.
