Winston Speedway Owner, Andrew Heykoop Expresses Interest in Closed Thunderbird Raceway

Muskegon, MI - All summer, questions have swirled around the future and fate of Thunderbird Raceway. In February of 2026, the track was originally listed on the market with the Commercial Alliance of Realtors; however, officials assured fans and drivers that the track would operate in 2026. Just shy of a month later, the track said the season was "put on hold" before it was officially announced on April 6th that the track was closed, and the social media accounts were hidden from the public eye.

Throughout a similar time period, excitement was building for new ownership at Winston Speedway in Rothbury, Michigan. Under the direction of local businessman Andrew Heykoop, Winston Speedway was resurrected for the 2026 season, and has witnessed great success, with full fields, full grandstands, and high anticipation for next year.

On Wednesday, September 2nd, a post on Heykoop's personal Facebook page suggested that he may be interested in purchasing another facility. Then, a comment from former Thunderbird Raceway owner, Heidi Smith-Morell linked Heykoop to potentially pursuing Thunderbird Raceway.

MARC News immediately reached out to Heykoop about the post to learn if the intentions were legitimate. Heykoop tells MARC News he is, in fact, interested in purchasing the property that sits just over 16 miles south of the now-booming Winston Speedway.

"I have expressed interest in Thunderbird Raceway," explained Heykoop. "After our great success at Winston Speedway, we feel adding a Saturday track to keep our cars local would help the racing community. At this time, we have nothing other than a dream."

In February, a post made by Thunderbird Raceway confirmed that the track was in default on payments, but claimed they had a six-month redemption period. Assuming the redemption period started in February, that redemption timeline would have ended in August.

The property is still listed via agent Drew Born with an asking price of $380,000.