HSR President Chris Ward Discusses Growth and Vision at EPARTRADE’s 5th Annual Race Industry Week
Chris Ward, President of Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR), joined EPARTRADE’s 5th Annual Race Industry Week to discuss exciting updates for HSR’s 2025 season, including expanded events, increased fan engagement, and innovations to ensure the future of historic motorsport. Speaking from Sebring International Raceway, where testing was underway for the Classic 12 Hour at Sebring, Ward outlined his vision for HSR as a premier destination for vintage and historic sports car racing in North America.
2025: A Landmark Calendar with Expanded Offerings
Since assuming his role in March 2024, Ward has been committed to honoring HSR’s storied past while steering the series toward new opportunities. The 2025 calendar reflects this balance, expanding from six to seven rounds with plans for eight in 2026.
A major highlight is the creation of a four-round Classic Endurance Championship, featuring the Classic 24 Hour at Daytona, the Classic 12 Hour at Sebring, the Classic 6 Hour at Watkins Glen, and a new event at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.
Ward explained, “This championship is the backbone of our 2025 calendar and represents a unique opportunity for competitors to engage in endurance racing with historic vehicles. It’s a testament to the growing appetite for these events among drivers and fans alike.”
Aligning the Classic 12 Hour at Sebring and the Classic 6 Hour at Watkins Glen with IMSA’s premier events will create what Ward described as “a festival of sports car racing,” enhancing the synergy between vintage and modern motorsport.
Unique Selling Points: Fun, Camaraderie, and Track Time
Ward emphasized the unmatched camaraderie and extensive track time that define the HSR experience.
“Our paddock is built on a sense of community,” Ward said. “It’s not uncommon to hear glasses clinking and laughter as competitors move between awnings after a day of racing. This spirit, combined with unrivaled track time, is what sets HSR apart.”
Safety and Innovation
To ensure the safety of its participants and preserve the legacy of historic cars, HSR has implemented stricter protocols to minimize on-track contact, including the introduction of in-car cameras and advanced marshalling systems for 2025.
“We categorically do not accept car-to-car contact,” Ward stated. “Safety is paramount, and our focus on technology and fair officiating will ensure that owners feel confident bringing their prized vehicles to compete.”
Ward also highlighted the broader industry challenge of maintaining the supply chain for historic vehicles, especially for rare parts like ECUs and bodywork.
“This is one of the biggest challenges ahead,” he said. “Ensuring the availability of parts and skilled technicians is critical to the future of historic motorsport.”
Expanding the Audience for Historic Racing
Ward acknowledged the importance of engaging younger generations while celebrating the multi-generational appeal of historic racing.
At events like the Classic 24 Hour at Daytona, HSR leveraged IMSA’s vast social media reach to live-stream the action, resulting in record-breaking viewership.
“Through partnerships with IMSA and expanded digital efforts, we’re reaching a wider audience than ever before,” Ward said. “The next step is enhancing the at-track experience, ensuring fans understand the complexities of our multi-class racing.”
Looking to the Future
While HSR’s core audience remains on the East Coast, Ward expressed a desire to expand the series’ footprint.
“We are privileged to serve as the sanctioning body for the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, which gives us a presence on the West Coast,” Ward said. “While our immediate focus is growing participation in the Northeast, the idea of more West Coast events is always on the table.”
With plans to innovate, expand, and engage a global audience, HSR is poised to elevate the world of historic motorsport.
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