YouTubers Saving Racing? Emelia Hartford Buying Willow Springs? Cleetus with The Freedom Factory?

Are Automotive KZbin Content Creators going to save racing? Does that sound crazy to anyone else? First with Cleetus Mcfarland buying Bradenton and completely transforming it into The Freedom Factory, and now Emelia Hartford is trying to buy Willd Springs Raceway? If you think about it, this might not be as crazy as it might sound at first!
Cleetus definitely showed the way, putting his KZbin Revenue where his mouth is and bringing a race track back to life. Any of us involved in this industry know it's a tough time, drag racing and road racing tracks closing seemingly every month. Is a partnership or ownership by a KZbin star the answer? I think it really could be!
Let's talk about this!

[@mazhul1748]

I dont drink, but ill spark one up and listen to a fine gentleman talking about an important topic for us racers!

[@mirandamaher9465]

cup of coffee ,cup of whisky, bowl of flowers, whatever floats your boat!

[@Milldog2023]

Im with ya pal .. 13 years sober. But yet smoke like Snoop 🎦 🎦

[@-g-lock813]

same ima smoking buddy no drinky IM PUFFINNN HOMIEEE :p HES A COOL dude i just seen him i never seen him

[@wisdomSP]

SAVE OUR RACE TRACKS and keep the shenanigans off the streets! So many tracks have gone by the way side for all sorts of reasons. It's the complete opposite of what happened with the skaters in the 90s and skate parks popping up in city parks today. At the moment, there's a huge lawsuit attempting to close Laguna Seca. It's a massive problem across the country that will certainly affect the future of the motorsports industry. Another track saver is GreenLightFilming. He saved a circle track, documented his progress on KZbin and continues hosting events to this day!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Amen! Say it again for the people in the back! Unfortunately as we have seen the more and more tracks that close, the more that things move to the streets and parking lots. Although I don't feel like street racing is nearly as big a thing as it was back in the more "Fast and Furious" days. What's going on with Laguna Seca is something we are seeing all across the country and likely will continue to. I've never checked out GreenLightFilming, I'll have to give those guys a watch and see what they are up to. Glad someone is out there fighting the good fight!

[@ronjones-6977]

@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin RIP Sacramento Raceway.

[@kylereese4822]

@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin Remember when Tesla`s were banned from racing because lol they were to fast.... If quiet(no threat of tinnitus) EV`s are not allowed to race there then it`ll be a very expensive flop.....

[@TheBlueCollarBaller]

We’ve lost our dragstrip here in Utah. We need people like this to save the sport

[@tomhowe1510]

@@kylereese4822 noo no ev was out lawed. No car saftey equipment to run in the 9 seconds and no track fire prevention for a battery fire.

[@davidgough1161]

Emelia is awesome, I hope that she is able to do this! She will make it better!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Fingers crossed for her for sure! We'll see where this goes!

[@Hello.people.575]

Emelia Hartford always does what she sets her mind to. She is incredible. She looks like a ageless Beautiful Model with a Super Personality.

[@danshoe4758]

Green Light Racing has also bought a small track and has been bringing it back! It's great to see KZbinrs keeping our race tracks alive!

[@OriginalMomo]

I’m sorry I didn’t find your channel until now, Austin. Someone needs to save our racetracks. Don’t forget she’s also an actress. If she’s able to pull it off, so be it. I feel every automotive youtuber should help anyone who is trying this same thing. No matter what kind of racing it is, they all need assistance. Every track saved, is another place where you, and others, can safely and legally do what they love.

[@RedBud315]

When I was racing my motorcycle at Willow in the 80’s the Bud Balcony was brand new and pretty much empty inside. They just built the 3/8 mile oval and the big track(no Streets of Willow yet) had no curbing at all. Just that orange cone at the apex of turn nine. It’s a shame that there’s a group of people trying to shut down Laguna but, Willow has history as well and I hope it’s there for many decades to come.

[@kurtiswa-k-8346]

Well said from someone that has run the track!

[@libertysgarage8411]

One thing track owners can do is if their track has been around for a long time is submit it to be included in the National Register of Historic Places. Once recognized as such, no encroaching development can shut them down legally or otherwise.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Good call! Definitely something to keep in mind!

[@briankearn6991]

Willow Springs is recognized as a California Place of Historical Interest

[@mattgraham1983]

If the county re-zones land it will force tracks to close a perfect example of this is the freedom factory and drag strip where the neighboring land was re-zoned and will be developed into housing so it will only be a matter of time before they are forced to close or have noise restrictions etc etc

[@patrickbachman2184]

Laguna Seca…

[@tomhowe1510]

Thats dumb. If a guy offered me a trillion dollar for anything its gone.

[@MrWIbackpacker]

That’s really where we are, and thank God we have this method of crowdfunding the salvation of Motorsport.

[@BigFrankieC]

This is a rock solid idea. Look the NFL, NBA, and all the other sports leagues make their biggest money from broadcast deals. Then merch. Then sponsors. ...and ticket sales come in dead last. In this idea, the Vlogger is the broadcaster, merch guy, sponsor, and host. All in one package. As for the concessions infrastructure, if you're less than hour drive from a decent sized town, I would imagine that there are plenty of food truck operators who would welcome the free advertising, and the target rich environment. ...also, local LEOs would welcome getting some of the racers off public roads.

[@todd8109]

Austin, I live in Connecticut and decades ago. Our track got sold and consumer reports bought it and turned it into their testing grounds. Well, they didn’t think about the future or the negative impact it would have. Now we have street races and takeovers around the state. All because the people don’t have a track anymore and the closest one is 2 hours away. So they have went to the streets instead of driving to the out of state tracks

[@joecameron3406]

I think it's totally awesome now what's happening. Drag n drive no prep It's getting back to just basic street machines can roll in race in a class and have a blast. Most of this has occurred because of you tube

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

You've certainly seen a massive change over the last 10-15 years as the NHRA type events get less and less focus and the more "normal people" racing eclipse them in popularity. Drag and Drive is definitely on the rise, and No Prep... who knows where THAT ends up be the crowds and interest are certainly there!

[@AndreS_-df2nw]

I think it's good that NHRA recognizes these events, but I also want them to remain separate from the big sanctioning bodies. Why send $$ to the sanctioning organizations for little if any benefit? Let the racers promoters & fans be creative, have fun, make new classes & bring in new people. The sanctioning bodies have done a lot to take the fun out of the sport for a long time.

[@traxiii]

It's funny but the two tracks owned by SCCA regions in CA are both doing great. Button Willow Raceway Park owned by the California Sports Car Club "Cal Club" region of SCCA is in the process of opening their second track and Thunderhill Raceway owned by the San Francisco region of SCCA already had 2 tracks and is constantly adding new buildings and features. Both raceways are super busy, being occupied well over 300 days a year, thanks to track day groups, racing teams doing testing and other stuff. Racing in CA is thriving, but our tracks are all far from metro areas, in hotter, dryer parts of the state. Those two are in opposite ends of CA's Central Valley.

[@chuckschultz7028]

You need deep pockets to keep a race track going because of the weather and legal costs. If you get income from things other than the actual races by using it for track days or car shows, it might make sense. Do you have a defunct track in the Columbus area in mind? Some cool tracks around you closed up in the last 15 years. Forget power tour and have Austin's Hot Rod Homecoming every year! Track needs to be at least 45 minutes from the nearest subdivision; preferably near an industrial park or something that will scare developers away.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Lol ohhhh man if I could make something like that happen and not bankrupt myself believe me I would! I'm already pushing on the ragged edge of what I can right now, trying not to look TOO far into the future and down the line. BUT, who knows, if this channel takes off and becomes profitable... I'm certainly open to the idea! We HAVE a project that's come and gone and come and gone and never really gotten off the ground in an area of downtown Columbus that was SUPPOSED to become a race track. Doubt it will ever happen though. Unfortunately the city sprawl here is also getting to the point where almost nowhere is safe from development. Now that Intel/Google/Microsoft/Amazon are all buying and building here our "middle of no where" properties are disappearing quickly.

[@extec101]

can agree that the track need to be used as often as posible to race club race and track days it cant be still otherwise its not generating money. its like a shoping center that need to be open every day and full of paying costumers to generate income if its open now and then it is on the virge of dead.

[@Jammer.1]

Cleetus started it here in usa & I expect to see more & the sport returning to what it was back in the 60-70's I'm new & following ! I go to the indy 800 every year !

[@1982MCI]

I’ve been saying this very thing for the past 2-3 years. KZbin can save a lot of these tracks but we need a few key interested individuals with hood ideas that will capture attention for each track your trying to save, but it is completely possible!! I’ve tried to figure out a way to bring myself into the picture which may include myself starting a channel and going mobile in my old converted Greyhound Bus and going from high profile race to high profile race and using killer editing to bring SRC quality productions to everyone that can not physically get to the track on the weekend and see where it goes from there.

[@mirandamaher9465]

New subscriber. Your title is accurate and youre talking about stuff we care about. Thank you. This is the kind of genuine content we look for.

[@jeffburnham5231]

Enjoying the new channel! Looking forward to what is to come.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Thanks Jeff, I really appreciate that. Still learning and plotting my path with this thing, so many different directions it could go but I'm excited to see it's at least going :)

[@neilreid9005]

Garrett nailed it when he pointed out that racing is the exact same show today as it was in th 60's. Other than ridiculously expensive, there is little access to the drivers, racing now is not a family friendly sport and wait for it- not fun enough to see in person. Garrett changed all that; his events are hilarious and innovative. I hope Emilia will do the same.

[@sonny9608]

This statement is just ridiculous. Not fun enough in person LOL. The sound alone is worth going for.

[@LTV_inc]

What do you know?

[@RedBud315]

When I was racing my motorcycle at Willow in the 80’s the Bud Balcony was brand new and pretty much empty inside. They just built the 3/8 mile oval and the big track(no Streets of Willow yet) had no curbing at all. Just that orange cone at the apex of turn nine. It’s a shame that there’s a group of people trying to shut down Laguna but, Willow has history as well and I hope it’s there for many decades to come. If it was on the Edward’s AFB side of the 14 it would have a better chance.

[@davidgough1161]

Thank you, Austin!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Welcome David, thank YOU!

[@eirik_halvorsen]

I think you’re on to something! Once you get the concept it’s really simple, and it has so much potential! You said it; KZbin and revenue. I haven’t, but I maybe should have followed Cleetus. I have seen several videos of abandoned tracks. So despite of not being American I absolutely agree that KZbinrs are the racetrack’s saviour! I’ve been watching Greenlight..? (I post a comment on my comment with a link) He’s small and it’s taking time, but it’s so cool!

[@eirik_halvorsen]

youtube.com/@greenlightfilming?si=N3wOTBA78VjJaNw3

[@davidgough1161]

I raced in Bradenton in the 80's. It is a very cool track that races well.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Haven't had a chance to race it yet, but hopefully some day! It was cool just BEING there honestly

[@markhatcher4325]

The "E" Crew and Cleatus's Crew keepin" the racin' rollin' 🤟🤟

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

We can certainly hope so!

[@randalltufts3321]

Look at all the interest that tom bailey has been able to bring to the table with drag n drive and sick the mag. And SRC Street racing Channel , old mans garage, g2g, have made that type of home grown racing popular. Radial tire racing 1/8th mile racing is doing real well. Its been a good time for auto sports and getting better. Everybody wants to be a jimmy daler lol

[@jeffjankiewicz5100]

The Emelia Hartford video Austin references, I pray She gets it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWbYlmSInsuGb9E Congratulations to Gen2Garage! Cleetus is killing it with The Freedom Factory, formally DeSoto Raceway. He streams the big events. I wish them all the best! Much respect. Good luck with your growing channel and projects, Austin.

[@WiSeNhEiMeR-1369]

= a BUDDY of mine / just a regular guy working in a FACTORY ... purchased a ROUNDY-ROUND Race Track in LIBERTY, INDIANA 47353 then Built / INSTALLED a 300' Sand Drag Race Track beside it on INDIANA State Road 44 between LIBERTY & CONNERSVILLE COOP ...

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

That's awesome! Good for him! Is the track staying successful and profitable?

[@scottjones5221]

Just found you ❤ love this thank you ❤

[@keithbailey540]

I'm sitting on my screened in porch on Tuesday night watching this with a good bourbon in hand. Myself and a couple of guys hang out on Tuesday evenings to chat. We call it Boston Legal. Became that due to how the show ends. You're spot on with your thoughts about racetracks and KZbinrs.

[@franklong8573]

Drag and Drive events are getting pretty popular now. I want to see the route of Power Tour for next year , being it starts in Indy ( only 75 miles from me ).

[@AndreS_-df2nw]

They all seem to be sold out within minutes

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Drag and Drive events are kind of becoming a victim of their own successes right now, and starting to overlap each other. It's definitely something I personally see as the future of the sport/hobby though. Curious about the next route for Power Tour myself, I'm thinking hit heads back North and West... we'll find out in about 6 months!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

That's one of the challenges for those events right now, massively popular and very limited spots

[@charliehodgdon3060]

Awesome video! These will be interesting. I'm looking forward to more like this!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Hopefully so! Just the things that pop into my mind and I really wanted to talk about this!

[@jeromyh8096]

I think you are right. The youtubers are on to something. Yet we are seeing talent leaving places like Hoonigan and Donut after they got too big and were purchased by companies.

[@robsmith3628]

Yeah I like where you're going with this.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Ya? I'm not totally nuts?

[@paulknopf8461]

Makes perfect sense!! Look at cleetus' events. He's filling the stands and his videos from the events are getting good views, so it's a win,win situation.​@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin

[@crazyd1377]

A few years back one of the local dj’s that worked for a top name radio station but the ocala dirt track to save it! Plus Tony Stewart raced their a lot and I believe we was an investor in it too! But we need these folks to help keep racing alive! It’s been around for over a hundred years let’s not let it die off like the steam engines!

[@KennethCrickmore-sl8jl]

I live in Bradenton and I am glad that Cleetus did all that he did with the Freedom Factory. If Amelia can do with willow Springs what Cleetus did here in Bradenton with the Freedom Factory It can only be good for the track to continue to be viable and great for racing as a whole. as you said PPV for the reces has been done. Cleetus does it with his events suck as the 'Le Mullets' races and 'Cleetus and cars'.....we can only hope that Emelia can complete this deal and save the willow Springs Raceway complex ...

[@ericszatkowski6001]

AMAZING IDEA AUSTIN!!! I’m sharing this to everyone!!!!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Please do! The more people who watch the more chances I hit 1 million by next June and can buy my OWN race track ;) (wouldn't that be nuts)

[@Pablo668]

I think the thing that is happening is that You tubers are now in a fairly primary place in the media. To me, if it were a different timeline Cleeter would be an event promoter, and an extremely good one at that. I mean he is already, it's just not his only role. I can see no reason why Emelia can't do the same with Willow Springs. If that's the way of things I'm cool with it, as long as tracks are saved I don't care how.

[@bonkerz2049]

Just found your channel, I'm from Australia and race tracks are closing here more then new tracks opening

[@redneckcomputergeek]

I grew my 2nd channel RCG Racing from 2k to 5k subs in a year by working with Unity Raceway in Maine and Winterport Dragstrip in Maine. The Irony of track going away is now people are searching to see who is still open. Tons of my comments on the FB page under this name are "Holy I went there as a kid I will go see it again this summer" The tracks see this and I get free invites to film now or a discount to get in.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

It's the best, easiest, cheapest form of marketing you can invest in. A huge portion of our business in the shop comes from what we do and show on KZbin. Congrats on the channel growth, hopefully this channel continues to grow at a good pace through the year! How are track closings hitting the North East? Is it becoming a big problem up there?

[@redneckcomputergeek]

@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin They just tried to shut down Winterport Drags. Bunch of underhanded political actions because of a 1.3 million housing project potential if they close the track.

[@Yosser70]

The really nice thing about Emelia, is she’d definitely class you as a peer.

[@SDRSpeedcuber]

Great content there mate. Me watching this from outside the U.S. can still relate to everything you said. I really love that kind of “development” there with Emilia and Cleetus and I hope that Emilia can make that happen. All this being recognized even from far away Germany where I live. Totally enjoyed that Whiskey chit chat part, being a whisk(e)y head myself. Really love some nice bourbons but Scotch malts as well. You just got yourself a new follower 😂.

[@christophercollins7604]

I hope that they do ,they are putting in the effort and they are all in the spotlight so they are bringing it to the people..

[@AceRacingRocks]

This is great ❤ Rockin Roll ❤️ Racing ❤ let's talk about this some more

[@Richie_RHD]

I don't know how this showed up in recommended, but i am glad i clicked it, enjoyed the listen. Subbed here.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Well thanks KZbin for putting me in your recommended, glad to have you here!

[@cayminlast]

The Freedom factory is an awesome racetrack, about 2 hours north of us and we love going up there, the world famous Swamp Buggy Racepark is about ten minutes from our doorstep and we also love supporting them. It's sad to see the sport facing all the challenges.

[@natec4359]

Hope your channel does grow that quick! You buy a track, I'll definitely come to it!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Thanks Nate I hope so to! One day at a time, one video at a time!

[@marvindebot3264]

The reason what Garrett did worked is that it's grassroots racing. No BS, no crazy expensive classes of car, just base racing that people can identify with and even afford. If I were in a position to buy or build a motorsport complex right now it would be a 1/4 mile strip, a half-mile dirt oval and a Rallycross track* along with a burnout pad and maybe a kart track if the budget stretched that far. Why? Because you can drag race anything from a pickup or a stock sedan to a hotrod or streetmachine. Dirt track speedway is cheap to get into, you can build a car for a few hundred bucks that is still a lot of fun to both drive and to watch. A car that can be sponsored by the local mechanic, parts store or gas station for a few hundred bucks. Rallycross is the same, you can build a car for a grand and have a lot of fun and it's entertaining to watch and relatable to those who do watch. Karting gives people a way into "serious" racing for an affordable budget, if you want to prove your worth as a racer for under 10k a year you can do that in karting easier than in any other sport. This is the key, getting people involved by having affordable motorsport that people can identify with, not ones with 10 million dollar budgets that are completely out of touch with everyday folks. *If you are unfamiliar with Rallycross it's a track that is a mix of dirt and tarmac suited to road and rally cars with a couple of gentle "jumps" on the dirt part that a cheaply built, street car based vehicle can cope with along with some fast dirt and tarmac sections. It's made for cars built in the garage at home like dirt track speedway once was.

[@STFUSTi]

I'm glad she's doing something with her easy button.

[@waltergwinn9189]

Austin he didn't buy Bradenton dragway...he bought DeSoto round track right next to the dragway!!!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

That's what I was trying to say maybe it didn't come across that way. Dang whiskey and freewheeling video recording!

[@OldguyChris]

Why do u think he gets to do so many videos there....I belive he has invested into the dragstrip...he has keys to the place....just sayin

[@OldguyChris]

You need to watch this guy it's greenlight racing...he did exactly what your talking about and made a place for his friends to drift...and now the race go karts....go check it out😊

[@mr.stonerUDX714]

@@OldguyChris he is a small invester at the drag strip

[@tonykeast9966]

Willow springs is known GLOBALLY. Remember it was a main track on the infamous Gran Tourismo playstation games. That was a massive part of modern car people's formative years and has stuck with every one of us. Cars that were featured in the game are gold dust and values reflect their cult status as the kids who raced them got older and became able to buy their old heroes. Think Nissan R34 skyline GTR. Emelia is part of this generation and by featuring in the new movie herself... she's got the GT2 generation by their now hairy balls! And I'm all for it, she's nailing it. The little boss chick gets my vote 100%

[@titanx04]

Residential is taken over or encroaching closer which then disallows late racing, noise restrictions.

[@skatetown100]

some great points where made here .. RIP Auto Club Speedway

[@OCDRex11]

Ok, I fall upon this and watch as I am aware of Emelia's plans for Willow Springs. So I watch to see what you have to say. You then whip out a finger of Whiskey on me?! C'mon man it is 2:51 pm here and I am not able to imbibe for a couple more hours. Do I wait? Good vid! I'll tip one your way later tonight, lol.

[@williamhardes8081]

strange to think the virtual may finally be able to save the physical. good luck with the track thing. i can only hope we can do similar things here in Australia.

[@tiledave621]

I think it’s a great idea! Possibly build new tracks as well. I like to hear what you have to say.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Hey I'm all for it, if the economics make sense we need a place to play and make content! Dunno if it's a great idea or not, but it's at least a not totally terrible idea ;)

[@GrandPitoVic]

That works sir!!! If I would have seen this last night, I would have joined you. But I'm watching this Wed morning lol.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Whiskey and Eggs? ;) This was just something I decided to film and talk about after seeing Emelia's video, definitely wasn't planned!

[@GrandPitoVic]

@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin Those are the best. Unplanned. Lol

[@Blake_C137]

Triple F Collection also bought a dragstrip in Ohio and are completely renovating the grounds and track.

[@keithmceuen8775]

If you want a race track that will last surround it with industrial parks and build homes as part of a HOA that gives track access kind of like thermal except with public access

[@michaelkirkwood3316]

Austin great video and I personally and I'm sure others would too appreciate you putt iij ng out a video maybe one a week to keep us up on this matter and you explain it so us regular folks can under stand what ur saying

[@miketech2]

My lottery dream is to own a racetrack. And my first track day 🏍️ was at Streets of Willow. Never thought of that one but it’s got a lot of potential.

[@jjm2948]

RC dirt oval. Team Associated SR10T. Racing fun at its finest

[@terryenyart5838]

I am all for saving our racetracks. I love racing & nothing is more American than automotive, truck & motorcycle racing.

[@outfitsgarage88]

I'm with you. There has been a ton of dirt tracks closed here in Arkansas in the last few years. Even the long running dirt track that was on the movie White Lightning. It closed and was sold to COPART.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Ugh! Sold to Copart to become what a parking lot for wrecked cars? :( How is the dirt track racing thing as a whole doing in the country? I haven't been to one in YEARS but went a ton as a kid in the 80s and early 90s.

[@outfitsgarage88]

@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin it's on a steady decline. The big events like at Eldora still bring in a packed house but weekly racing is seeing a decline in fans. And car counts. The economy is a large factor but also a new generation of non productive kids that won't think for them selves is another factor. They would assume stay home and play video games. .

[@f500raptor]

Copart is on a mission to buy & close racetracks across the US. They've gone all-in on ESG. They shutdown Englishtown in NJ and made a deal for Grandview Speedway in PA, but there was a hiccup in the process and the owner had a change of heart after seeing the reaction of the fans. NJMP has been sued multiple times a year by environmental groups since before they opened their gates. The lawsuits go nowhere but the goal is to harass the owners into shutting down the track (aka lawfare). Never underestimate the power of a totalitarian who's on a mission to make you live your life the way they want you to live it

[@user-ju8po9sy2m]

Even buying into a current track as a partner with the current ownership is another way without as much capital. Granted it will take more than a handshake and would need everything in writing, but still it's viable

[@frizzellracing]

I can guarantee if I get big enough I’m buying a track. But I’m the guy that likes the small outlaw tracks.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Realistically if you think about it even a "pretty successful" KZbinr or small band of KZbinrs could afford to buy a small outlaw track. Definitely see it as potential way forward for the sport

[@gamesterx2636]

My local track (Rockford Speedway) sold last year, Its being torn down right now and turned into 2 strip malls!

[@kevhans1]

nice track for sale in Iowa I29 raceway as well, hopefully someone buys it

[@Gavin-qh7li]

Cleetus has been great for the sport Over 700000 views for a Mothers Day race. That would have to be a Record for a Women's race.

[@Warlock2018a]

Cleetus didn't buy Bradenton Raceway. He bought the Oval track next door to Bradenton. The track was called Desoto Raceway.

[@mgharvey3657]

You've got LZ with the compound as well.

[@jpol3808]

It's great that y tubers can buy race tracks. But there is another avenue. Find one going belly up where the owner wants to keep it going but can't and but into the track while it's still in operation and make sure you get in writing the right to change things as necessary! Good job! Later. 🤔🏁👍👏🇺🇸

[@mirandamaher9465]

Automotive is a crossroads of interests. It actually pulls people from all genres. Look at Demo Matt and Roman Atwood getting involved in Cleetus N Cars. A gun content creator and a family vlogger. Everyone loves cars. As far as small tracks getting hype from youtube, it should be more prevalent.

[@maxfish4770]

We have lost many tracks in Australia, knock them down and build houses 😢

[@masonthomas3141]

Sir you have me at eagle and can we make this a weekly series of all topics love it

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Well glad to have you on board! I'm certainly down for some drinking and talkin!

[@theartmannchannel]

Cheers!

[@HAIDARAVEN]

Awesome video…..

[@cboutdoorfun9955]

So assuming Emelia gets the track will she start her own streaming service or will she use Freedom Plus of cleetus's

[@frizzellracing]

Yes ! You nailed it. We need a KZbin kings series. 😂. I’m in. 😂

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

I mean.... tell me that's not a great idea? Or at least a mildly not terrible idea? ;)

[@frizzellracing]

@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin I think it’s a great idea. And I think people would do it

[@mattthompson5908]

If emelia could get some big names like cleeter did, summit racing, nitto tires, ect. That'll help and those companies would be wise to back her and that track. I'm sure cleeter could give her some advise on this venture

[@GrandPitoVic]

Talking Tuesday would be awesome. Especially if you do a live every so often.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

I most certainly could make it a live thing without any problem at all! If the people are interested, it can happen!

[@GrandPitoVic]

@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin YES sir. It only works if people will watch that way.lol. I like the interaction. But not everyone does.

[@GrandPitoVic]

@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin The only downside to lives is getting people to watch the replay.

[@Dirtyrpide4life]

Organized racing tracks forgot about the little guys many years ago. Their decision to minimize (and some cases discontinue)the grass roots level inclusion was pure suicidal for any and all of their long term interests. It’s taken 25 years for grass roots to get involved again . As you can see …. Grass roots is flourishing! As it did back when the industry of hotrodding began many decades ago .

[@jonjohnson2796]

YAY to Eagle Rare!

[@mattthompson5908]

It's crazy what youtube has done for not only people's lives, also the communities. Just from people watching videos

[@coachieshort5413]

I AGREE 100% WITH YOU, GO EMELIA.

[@thiswillprobhrt]

No doubt that people who know how to leverage social media are restoring and buying tracks. Black River Motorsports Park in WI has seen a transformation from abandoned to thriving. TNT raceway in the same state. That's just off the top of my head. I've attempted same (obv not via this channel) but the deal fell though.. I'm not done looking though. If you looks to the events side, HPDE and the likes of Grid Life have seen huge anticipation because the generally have a modern approach. Whereas SCCA.... well, nothing against them but I think it's fair to say they are struggling relatively speaking.

[@farmfreshcustoms2227]

nice vid 😄

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!

[@tobiastho9639]

Maybe make a talk about were street racing is a problem and how a racetrack near by could help against it… 😎

[@drewarlotta3818]

What a great idea

[@toddcallaghan5609]

Emeila will pull it off... she sets big goals then goes fer it

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Gotta set those stretch goals, and really stretch for it. I really HOPE she succeeds it would be really awesome to see that facility go into the hands of someone who cares and wants to keep it alive.

[@f500raptor]

She has some big money people behind her (if you watch her channel regularly you can figure out two of them). The good part here is that the owners of Willow Springs have stated that they only want to sell to someone that will continue to operate it as a track (there's a video recently posted on their Channel about it) I just hope that she can figure out the management side of it. Owning a track isn't as profitable as a lot of people think, between the insurance, staffing challenges and the regular harassment lawsuits that come from both environmental groups & hostile government agencies. It's not at all easy.

[@GrandPitoVic]

That would be a great idea. I am nowhere near monitized. But I would love to be able to do something like this. One day!!!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

All it takes is one or two videos to take off and you're in the money, keep working and looking for ideas to grow. But don't lose sight of having fun with what you're doing.

[@GrandPitoVic]

@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin Thank you sir.

[@radamus210]

Isn't it crazy? I was pumped to see this, that someone was as intrigued about this as I think anyone should be. Not sure how many people I would say "Hey, you seen Amelia on YT?" .... so really cool. I've no idea of her actual standing for such a deal, and surely she'll face obstacles not normally in the way for the "good ole' boys" club~ but it's interesting. For me? Hey, whoever, whatever, this is a passion of love for gearheads and Amelia sure as hell seems to be as much as anyone totally into cars, cars and more cars. I'm happy as shit she's been able to make her dreams come true and the means to do so. Hell of a grin. I've got 2 younger sisters so I get a thrill when the girls follow their dreams of whatever. Yeah, I'm a girl dad. Chicks rock! and honestly, have to be tougher for all the shit they gotta go through a guy doesn't.

[@glennramsey917]

Buddy ive seen all the things you speak of buy i had never thought of it the way you brought it out !!! Lets say Amelia bought the dragstrip .. those youtube videos she makes can be watched from now on and the views never stop going up … another thing .. i know of Lucore Automotive because i watch Old Mans Garage . So whos to say that if Bill would put another performance shop or performance parts store on his channel how many of us would place online orders thru them picking business ip drastically and so on and so forth .. i now realize the possibilities are endless !!!

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

Something I/we have talked to Bill about specifically is the "outsized impact" he/they can have beyond just people watching a video or buying a tshirt. There's absolutely NO better way to get in touch with potential customers/fans/supporters than KZbin. It doesn't even have to be just brick and mortar businesses, look at it simply with channels. How many people owe a huge portion (or all of) their success thanks to Bill/Billy/Tommy/Vicki? The Lucore page is certainly a part of that equation and it has no doubt positively effected our business. One of the most beautiful parts of KZbin is the opportunity for residual revenue, earning income off of videos you did weeks, months, or even years ago. No other platform comes close.

[@glennramsey917]

@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin your absolutely right … where would the automotive /racing community be in 2024 without youtube ??? … when i finally got internet in 2019 i was a engine builder hot rod builder and you have no idea how much I’ve learned in the past 6 years just by having videos playing in my garage while im piddlin on old hot rods … I ran across an old friend i hadn’t seen in 10 years .. he is a business owner .. he builds houses and has for around 40 years .. he has a whole crew working for him .. he dragraces a 67 fairlane and has 2 flawless f100’s in his garage .. one a 66 one a 71 … he is putting together another 67 fairlane for street strip purposes .. needless to say he is a car guy … when he pulled out a flip phone to make sure he has my correct phone number i nearly fell over … the whole time we was talking about cars i felt like i was his teacher because alot of stuff i was telling him has never crossed his mind .. but ive ben getting an education from all over the world from videos just like yours … that tells me how much behind ppl is who dont have internet/youtube … hopefully i can get him up to date soon . I said all that to say this .. unless you spend an hour with a guy like my friend you don’t really realize how far youtube has took the automotive/racing community . Ill tell you as ive told other youtubers … thanks for the free education my friend !!! Dont ever stop !!!

[@MikeY77z28]

I hate to say it but,Cleetus doesn't have a chance of keeping that track open in the same location.Theres 4,500 homes being built that track.Just think of how many karens are gong to move in.I'm from connecticut.The drag strip here was closed for the same reason and not as nearly as much houses as the freedom factory has going in.Garrett knows it and he's already looking to build another track.

[@CS_247]

I am going with that theory. He owns the real estate tho, and once it gets slated for development, he can charge the moon for it. And build a track where he wants....

[@turboturtle9083]

The track was there first. Like someone buying a house near an airport and doesn't like the noise.

[@MikeY77z28]

@@turboturtle9083Thats the way it should be.But,Unfortunatately enough karens bitch the tracks start getting curfews and restrictions to the point the track can't stay running.Its happened with connecticut dragway,englistown nj drag strip.Laguna sega is going thru it now.

[@user-qq2fo1tz8k]

I’ll sub ya! You seem like a good ole fella!👍

[@glennbarry1315]

Eagle Rare FTW!

[@rolliefoster2837]

...absolutely love it...

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

I'm not COMPLETELY nuts with this thinking?

[@rolliefoster2837]

@@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin ...not in the least !...

[@cutcoil5145]

If you keep this whiskey Tuesday thing going. I'll pour myself one and watch on Wednesday. I work graveyard.

[@AutomotiveAdventuresWithAustin]

We'll see if it becomes a "normal thing" or not, really depends on you all. I certainly don't mind a whiskey and front porch sitting conversation!

[@WiSeNhEiMeR-1369]

HOWdy AUSTIN, ... Thanks COOP the WiSeNhEiMeR from Richmond, INDIANA ...

[@Astinsan]

the cleeter did it.. it is awesome

[@-g-lock813]

yESSSSSSSSSSSS WE ARE LETS GET ITTTTTTTTT SOON CLLETUS OWN BRAINERD WATCH~!

[@RSDX99]

I love racing and racetrack but NIMBY and race fans are a small % of home owners in most communities, as the population grows and the cost of land increases farms and racetracks eventually all have to sell to recoup their investments. Happens all over the country and will never end. Not at the major facilities like Indy, Daytona will remain but the smally guys will succumb to RE developers. Cleetus will eventually sell because he is a smart guy and smart guys always do what's right financially. When I moved to NC to be close to NASCAR I moved to a golf community not because I golf but because nobody is building racecars or racetracks in my neighborhood, but it's only 20 Minutes to Rockingham, racetrack and dragstrip.