Ransomville Speedway To Induct Stan Friesen Into Ring of Honor on June 23
COLUMN BY: Steve Petty / RANSOMVILLE SPEEDWAY – RANSOMVILLE, NY – Ransomville Speedway officials are proud to announce that longtime owner and promoter Stan Friesen will become the second inductee into the Ransomville Speedway Ring of Honor on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
For more than four decades, Friesen dedicated his life to preserving and growing the “Big R” into one of the most respected dirt tracks in Northeast motorsports. Under his leadership, Ransomville Speedway became known for its family atmosphere, competitive racing programs, and commitment to racers and fans alike.
After racing the famed “Dolly Dear” 52, Stan and crew chief Kurt Uhl purchased Ransomville Speedway in 1972, a year after the duo purchased Merrittville Speedway. Stan’s racing efforts behind the wheel got him to win 16 Modified races at Ransomville between 1968-1972, and a championship at Weedsport Speedway in 1972.
Stan’s passion for the sport quickly helped shape the facility into a staple of Western New York racing. Through changing times in the motorsports industry, Friesen remained committed to providing affordable family entertainment while maintaining the traditions that made Ransomville Speedway special to generations of race fans.
Alongside wife Diane along with sons Jamie (Yvonne), Joel (Trish), Alex, and the entire family, the Friesen’s owned and operated Ransomville Speedway for 42 seasons. Besides the ownerships of both Ransomville and Merrittville, Stan and the family also purchased and operated Lancaster Speedway for over two decades.
During his tenure as owner and promoter, Friesen helped oversee countless marquee events, championship seasons, and memorable moments. His dedication extended far beyond race night operations, as he continuously worked behind the scenes to improve the facility, support competitors, and ensure the long-term success of the speedway.
“Stan Friesen’s impact on Ransomville Speedway is immeasurable,” said General Manager Tana Robinson. “His passion, leadership, and dedication helped keep racing alive and thriving in Ransomville for decades. The Ring of Honor was created to recognize individuals whose contributions shaped the history of this great facility, and Stan is more than deserving of this recognition.”
Friesen joins inaugural Ring of Honor inductee Ed Ortiz as part of the prestigious honor celebrating the individuals who helped define the rich history and tradition of Ransomville Speedway.
The induction ceremony will take place on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, as part of the 41st running of the Ron Martin Summer Nationals featuring the Super DIRTcar Series and the Empire Street Stock Series. Fans, competitors, and members of the racing community are invited to attend and celebrate Friesen’s lasting legacy at the “Big R”.
