WALLINGFORD, Ky. / WEST PORTSMOUTH, Ohio — A new chapter has begun for two well-known dirt racing facilities in the Ohio Valley.
The Jent family, owners of Mudlick Valley Raceway at 15322 KY 344, Wallingford, KY 41093, announced Friday that they have officially purchased Portsmouth Raceway Park, located at 25648 State Route 73, West Portsmouth, OH 45663.
The announcement was made jointly through statements from both Mudlick Valley Raceway and the outgoing owners of Portsmouth Raceway Park, the Coleman family.
Despite taking ownership of Portsmouth Raceway Park, the Jents emphasized that Mudlick Valley Raceway is not closing or being sold. Instead, the Kentucky track will continue operating on a limited schedule while the family focuses its time and resources on both facilities.
"We have no plans to step away from Mudlick Valley Raceway or sell it," the family said in its announcement. "Our commitment to Mudlick Valley Raceway remains as strong as ever."
Two Events Remain at Mudlick Valley
Mudlick Valley Raceway will conclude its 2026 season with two scheduled events:
July 4, 2026 – The 6th Annual 4B4EVER, featuring the American Iron-Man Series Super Late Models along with a fireworks show.
September 6, 2026 – The 1st Annual Larry Toller Memorial, featuring a Super Late Model event.
Those races will officially close out the 2026 season at the Wallingford facility.
A Legacy Changes Hands
Portsmouth Raceway Park has been owned and operated by the Coleman family for the past 36 years.
In a farewell message to racers and fans, the Colemans reflected on the track's growth from a private test-and-tune facility into one of the region's premier dirt tracks.
"Season after season, we met so many people that became lifelong friends," the family said. "We want to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for your support over the years."
The Colemans encouraged fans to continue supporting the Jent family as they take over operations, noting that they will still be around—just watching the races from the grandstands instead of running the facility.
Looking Ahead
The Jents expressed gratitude to Tim, Jenny, and the entire Coleman family for helping make the transition as smooth as possible and for entrusting them with the future of Portsmouth Raceway Park.
They described the Ohio facility as one of the nation's most prestigious dirt tracks and said they are honored to build upon the foundation established over the past three decades.
Although they had hoped to open Portsmouth Raceway Park with an event on July 2, they said circumstances prevented that timeline. Work continues behind the scenes, and additional announcements regarding the track's opening date, race schedule, and future plans are expected soon.
The family also reflected on their own journey, saying what began with the purchase and restoration of Mudlick Valley Raceway has now grown into the opportunity to operate two racing venues.
They credited racers, fans, sponsors, employees, and their families for helping make that dream possible.
With the acquisition complete, the Jents say the future is bright as they begin the next chapter for both Mudlick Valley Raceway and Portsmouth Raceway Park.
