Davey Hamilton Jr. Champions the Future of Open-Wheel Racing
At EPARTRADE's 5th Annual Race Industry Week, Davey Hamilton Jr., founder of The Open Wheel Showdown, took center stage to discuss the growing success of his event, the challenges of balancing his racing career with promotion, and his vision for the future of pavement sprint car racing.
The Open Wheel Showdown: A Crown Jewel in the Making
Now in its second year, The Open Wheel Showdown, held at the Bullring at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, is rapidly gaining traction as a must-attend event in the racing world. Hamilton expressed his commitment to elevating the event to the status of legendary races such as the Little 500 and Copper World Classic.
“The goal is for racers to dream of winning The Open Wheel Showdown as a defining career achievement,” Hamilton said.
Despite facing challenges like weather delays this year, Hamilton highlighted the growing participation and enthusiasm. With over 50 entries, including notable drivers from across the country, the event showcased a variety of divisions, from wing sprint cars to supermodifieds and modifieds.
Inspired by Racing Heritage
Hamilton credited his family’s rich racing legacy—his father, Davey Hamilton Sr., and grandfather, a veteran racer—for inspiring his vision for The Open Wheel Showdown.
“My dad is a supermodified legend, and this event draws on the energy of iconic races he was part of,” Hamilton shared. “We’re helping to rebuild and grow interest in pavement racing on the West Coast and beyond.”
Balancing Promotion and Racing
In addition to promoting the event, Hamilton is an accomplished driver with aspirations of competing in the Indy 500. Managing his dual roles as promoter and competitor has been challenging but rewarding.
“It’s stressful, but I’m learning to delegate and take advice,” he said. “Having a great partner like Stuart Young has helped turn The Open Wheel Showdown into a sustainable business while letting me focus on my racing goals.”
Hamilton finished third in the inaugural event and looks forward to competing again next year, though he hopes to spend less time organizing and more time on the track.
Future Growth and Expanding the Event’s Appeal
Hamilton is committed to making The Open Wheel Showdown a premier event, emphasizing accessibility for fans and racers alike. He plans to expand the entertainment offerings, potentially including concerts and freestyle motocross demonstrations to create a full weekend experience.
“Adding elements like a fireworks show this year enhanced the atmosphere,” Hamilton said. “We want fans to come for the event as a whole, not just the racing.”
Promoting Wing Sprint Car Racing
Hamilton is also focused on raising the profile of wing sprint car racing on pavement.
“These cars are fast—scary fast—and they deserve more attention,” he said. “We’re working on unifying rules across regions to make it easier for teams to compete nationwide.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
Hamilton hinted at exciting additions for the third edition of The Open Wheel Showdown, including the potential for a fourth racing class and an earlier event date to accommodate weather and scheduling.
“We’re building momentum,” he said. “The vision is to make this event the crown jewel of pavement open-wheel racing.”
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